Eugene R. “Gene” Covert, 84, of Slippery Rock passed away Tuesday at his residence.

Gene was born May 23, 1933, in Butler to Ethel L. Mottern Covert and Harry E. Covert of Oakland Township.

He was Protestant in his faith.

Gene was a U.S. Army veteran having served during the Korean War.

He retired after 42 years of service as a machinist at Armco and then worked another 10 years as a mechanic for the auto auction. Gene was also a certified flight instructor and a private and commercial pilot.

Gene is survived by his wife, Darlene Beachem Covert; his sons, Eugene “Spanky” (Melinda) Covert of Ashburn, Va., Mathew Covert of Ruther Glen, Va., Ryan Covert of Butler, Charles E. (Jodi Potts) Brewster of Slippery Rock, and Gregory (Beth Murdick) Brewster of Butler; his grandchildren, Dalton (Chelsea) Covert, Zack Covert, Josh Covert, Talon Murdick and Ava Brewster; and his great-grandchildren, Kammeron and Rylie Covert. Also surviving are two brothers, Elmer (Gerri) Covert of Renfrew and Lloyd “Snuffy” Covert of Chicora; his great-nephew, buddy and pal, Max Pugh; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Mary Jane Herald; and his sister-in-law, Mary Ann Covert.

The family would like to thank Dr. David Hoyt, the Kindred Hospice Nursing Staff, Rick, Toni, Claire and Nicole and everyone for their prayers, phone calls and cards.

Darlene would like to give a big thanks to our boys, Diane “Dizie” Carothers, (my twin), Nora Beachem, Debbie Lewis, Shirley Shay, Jodi and Shawn Pugh, Jen Schaub, our brothers and sisters, neighbors and friends. With much love and appreciation, I am truly blessed.

To Gene, my wonderful husband, love of my life and dearest friend, Thank You for the wonderful years. Love You. Darlene.

COVERT — The family of Eugene R. “Gene” Covert, who died Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2018, will receive friends from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday at William F. Young Funeral Home, 132 Main St., West Sunbury.Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at the funeral home with the Rev. Claire Megles, chaplain for Kindred Hospice of New Castle, officiating.Burial will be private.If desired, online condolences may be submitted at www.williamfyoungfh.com.