Eugene (Gene) Wahl, 95, of Westlake Village, California suffered a fatal heart attack on November 16, 2011 while walking his dog.

Born in Indianapolis, Indiana on October 19, 1916, Gene graduated from Wabash College in 1940. Soon thereafter he began his 33-year career as an officer in the U.S. Air Force. His initial tour was as a fighter pilot in the Southwest Pacific during World War II, for which he was awarded the Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. His later years on active duty extended throughout the Korean and Vietnam Wars until his retirement as a Colonel in 1974.

In 1942, he married Mary Ellen Koch and later became the father of two daughters, Susan and Katherine. His military assignment often required relocation which ranged from the cold of Alaska to the pleasures of Hawaii. During his off-duty hours, Gene was absorbed in supporting the successful competitive swimming careers of his daughters, enjoying bowling, woodworking, and collecting stamps and coins.

Gene retired in Alexandria, VA and later moved to Pacific Grove, CA, the childhood home of his wife. An active member of the Lions Club and Chamber of Commerce, he also found time to attend reunions of the 39th Fighter Squadron until his wife's extended illness demanded his attention as caregiver until her death in 1992.

In 1995, he married Marjorie Carle and relocated to Phoenix, AZ then subsequently to Westlake Village, CA.

He is survived by his wife, Marjorie, his daughters Susan Tomkin of Tryon, NC, Katherine Wahl of Oak Beach, NY, and his grandson Zachary Wahl who is attending graduate school at the University of Alabama.

Colonel Wahl's remains will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery on February 13, 2012.