Vincent Eugene Wehmeyer

Gene was born March 25, 1948 to Vincent and Eileen Wehmeyer in Omak, WA. He was raised in Winthrop WA where he spent his childhood and attended school. Growing up in the Methow Valley helped shape his love for the outdoors, community and simple values that guided him throughout his life. At the age of 18 Gene answered the call to serve his country and enlisted in the Army, beginning a chapter of service that he carried with pride for the rest of his life.

Gene was inducted into the US Army on September 26, 1966. Gene spent 1 tour of duty in Vietnam with the 201st Aviation Company Corp, assigned to the Headquarters where he was a Senior Helicopter repairman and assisted with recovery. A portion of his tour was also with the 48th Assault Helicopter Company working with the Korean Military White Horse Division as a Crew Chief. Upon returning from Vietnam he was part of the B Troupe First Cavalry Division stationed at Fort Knox Kentucky. Gene was discharged on June 27th 1969. Gene also spent 2 years from 1984-1986 in the US Air Force Reserves as a C141 repairman at McChord AFB.

After returning home from Vietnam, Gene worked for the US Forest Service and later for the WA State Patrol before spending many years with the Bureau of Land Management as a Civil Engineering Technician from which he retired.

Above all else, Gene cherished his family. He was a devoted father to his sons Jeremy and Nathan, and took immense pride in the men they became. His greatest joy, however, came from being Grandpa Gene to Ryan, Steven, Bettie, Bobby and Rosie. He was not only a grandfather but a storyteller, supporter, and friend. He loved each of them deeply and considered them among his life’s greatest blessings. If you spent a few minutes with Gene, chances are you heard about one of his Grandkids. He was their biggest fan and took pride in sharing stories of their accomplishments, sporting events, activities and milestones with anyone willing to listen.

Gene’s love extended far beyond his immediate family. The friends of his grandkids quickly became family in his eyes. He proudly claimed many of them as his bonus grandkids. To them he was simply Grandpa Gene, a title he wore with pride. Gene had a special way of making every young person feel welcome, valued and loved.

One of Gene’s favorite pastimes was attending his grandchildren's sporting events. Though known as a quiet and kind man, those qualities occasionally took a backseat when it came to officiating. Gene never hesitated to offer his “expert analysis” to referees often convinced they could benefit from a little guidance. His enthusiastic sideline commentary became part of the experience and remains one of the many memories that will bring smiles and laughter for years to come.

Chopper was a member of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, where he found camaraderie among fellow veterans who shared a deep understanding of service, sacrifice and brotherhood. He enjoyed the fellowship of fellow veterans and the opportunity to give back to those who had served our Country.

Gene will be remembered for his unwavering patriotism, his love of country, his dedication to fellow veterans and friendships he built throughout his life. Whether known as Gene, Dad, Grandpa Gene or Chopper he left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Though Gene’s presence will be deeply missed, his love remains in the hearts of those he leaves behind: his sons and their families- Jeremy, Marie, Steven and Rosie Wehmeyer; Ryan Compton; Nathan, Jill, Bettie and Bobby Wehmeyer, countless friends and fellow Veterans whose lives were made better by knowing him.

Gene’s legacy is one of service, love, strength, generosity, humor and family. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A celebration of Gene’s life will be held on August 1, 2026 at 11:00 am at the Armed Forces Legacy Tonasket, WA

Family and friends are encouraged to gather, share stories, remember the good times and honor the legacy of a man who meant so much to so many.

In lieu of flowers the family invites you to honor Gene’s memory through donation to the Tonasket American Legion or any Youth Sports Program of your choice. Supporting Veterans and encouraging young athletes were causes that reflected the values Gene carried throughout his life.