Arlon Eugene “Gene” Sullivan

Arlon Eugene “Gene” Sullivan, 84, Lawrence, Kansas, formerly of Washington D.C. passed away at Legend Healthcare in Tonganoxie on Friday, October 18, 2019.

Gene was born on August 7, 1935 on a farm in Almena, Kansas, the son of Laurin and Martha (Bukacek) Sullivan. As a sixth grader he moved with his family to a ranch outside of Edmond, Kansas. He graduated from Edmond High School in 1953, then moved with his family to Lawrence, Kansas to attend The University of Kansas where he was active as President of the Quill Club.

Following college graduation Gene taught English for a year at Eudora High School, directed the senior play and served as school librarian. In 1959 he began his ROTC service as Quartermaster, serving two years in Washington, D.C. and three years in Germany, culminating his service with the rank of Captain.

Gene continued his service to the United States government in Washington, D.C. through the Department of Education, emphasizing adult education as Director of the northeast United States region of the Job Corps. He received his Doctorate in Adult Education from George Washington University in 1978.

Gene retired from the Job Corps at age 55 and worked in real estate in Washington, D.C. for many years, then returned to Lawrence, Kansas to be near family. He was active with the American Legion, Democratic Party and many other local groups.

Gene will be remembered for his voracious curiosity, his love of poetry and literature and the legacy he leaves his daughter, her family, generations of nieces, nephews and friends far and near.

The family will greet friends Wednesday, October 23, 2019 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m., at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Lawrence.

Survivors include his daughter, Rue Ann (Michael) Moorman of Alabama; sister, Kathy (Charles) Hagen of Lawrence; sister-in-law, Eugenia Bryan of Lawrence; and numerous nieces and nephews. Nieces and nephews: Lauren Sullivan (Scott Splawn), Kevin Sullivan, Genie Sullivan, Martha Sullivan of Lawrence; Esther (Alan) Wisdom of Falls Church, Virginia; Charles Hagen (Laura King), Kathy Hagen (Tom Kappelmann) of Kansas City area; Beth (Brian) Key of Houston, Texas. Great nieces and nephews: Rowan Cook, Charles King-Hagen, Mika Sullivan, Kate King Hagen, Esther Wisdom, Robyn Key, Daniel Wisdom, Ethan Key, Erin Key.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Jack Sullivan and dear friend Joan Givens.

Memorial contributions may be made in Gene’s name to the donor’s choice and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.