Gene Kohout, age 74, of Bechyn, passed away unexpectedly, Tuesday, July 16, 2024 at his home. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 19, 2024 at St. Catherine Catholic Church in Redwood Falls with a livestream on the church’s YouTube page. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Burial will be at St. Mary Catholic Cemetery in Bechyn. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. Mary’s Preservation Society. Stephens Funeral Service – Redwood Valley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Gene Kohout was born to William and Rose (Goblish) Kohout on June 4, 1950 in Redwood Falls. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary Catholic Church in Bechyn. Gene attended Danube High School, graduating in 1968. He got his diesel mechanic degree in 1970 from Willmar Vo-Tech. From October 15, 1970 to April 14, 1972, Gene served in Vietnam with the US Army. When he returned home, he joined the National Guard where he served for many years. He also began farming with his dad and uncle Milo. Gene was very active with the Bechyn Czech Fest. He took part in many parades, where he drove the barrel train that he made. He manufactured many metal plant holders and other metal crafts. Gene put up tents and rented picnic tables for various events in the area. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Renville County Historical Society. He also served on the worship committee at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church. Gene enjoyed playing cards and decorating the church for various holidays and events. He was a song leader for many years and sang in the church choir and sang for other numerous community events.

Gene is survived by his siblings: Judy (Steve) Rien of Annandale, Karen (Melvin) Piekarski of Little Falls, Shirley Kohout of Missoula, MT, Marsha Fluck of Redwood Falls, Mike (Phyllis) Kohout of Redwood Falls, Renee (Dennis) Cash of Atwater, John (Colleen) Kohout of Olivia, Joan (Jim) Ryan of Miltona, Larry (Liz) Kohout of Redwood Falls & Laurie (Joe) Scherer of Missoul, MT; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; worship committee at St. Catherine Catholic Church; many other relatives & friends; as well as his close friends throughout the Bechyn area. He is preceded in death by his parents, many aunts and uncles and brothers-in-law Butch Fluck and Steven Goelz.