Gene Ponkauskas, 79, of Hayesville passed away Saturday, July 6, 2019 at his residence. He was a native of Joliet, Illinois. Gene served in the United States Air Force. He met his wife, Myrna, in California in 1972 and married December 31, 1975. He enjoyed playing golf and kept busy with woodworking and many projects around the house. Gene enjoyed rescuing Dobermans and giving them a good life.

He was the son of the late Joseph and Lucille Schwab Ponkauskas. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Mike Ponkauskas.

Surviving are his loving wife of almost 45 years, Myrna; two daughters, Melissa Ruille and husband, Joseph of Hemet, California and Cindy Martinez of Corona, California; six sisters, Rosemary, Genny, Beverly, Stella, Pamela, and Joanne; a brother, Richard; five grandchildren and four great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

No services are planned at this time.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in memory of Gene Ponkauskas to any local animal rescue organization.

Ivie Funeral Home, Hayesville in charge of arrangements.