WINDHAM — Walter Gene Partridge, 62, of Windham, passed away Monday, Aug. 26, 2019, at Maine Medical Center.

Walter was born Oct. 23, 1956, the son of Barbara (Foster) Gervais and the late Walter L. Partridge. Growing up in Windham, he worked on the family dairy farm, as well as for Hall Family Farm. He graduated from Windham High School, class of 1975, married his high school sweetheart, Mary, went onto work for Crosby Laughlin, and then moved on to S.D. Warren (Sappi), where he worked for the past 40 years. Together, they settled in a house he built in Windham, where they raised their three children.

At a very young age, Gene rode dirt bikes, which evolved into motocross racing. In later years, he became a motorcycle enthusiast, even taking his son’s Harley out for a few joy rides. In his youth, he also enjoyed riding snowmobiles and racing cars at Beech Ridge. Throughout his life, Gene enjoyed hunting with family and close friends, and it only got better for him when his son was old enough to join him. He became a proud member of the Big Buck Club. One of his favorite pastimes was sharing his many stories of their bear, moose and deer hunting experiences. Later in life, Oliver Tractors became a passion as he became involved in the Maine Antique Tractor Club and began pulling antique tractors at local fairs. One of his greatest joys was spending time with his family, with many memories boating on the lake, as well as numerous days poolside in the back yard. Gene was so proud when his grandchildren were born and he got the title of “Papa.”

Gene shared 43 years of marriage with Mary (Stewart) Partridge of Windham.

In addition to his wife, family members include his children, Heather Partridge, Walter Gene Partridge Jr. of Windham and Erin Partridge of Freeport; two grandchildren; mother, Barbara Gervais of Raymond; stepmother, Kathryn Partridge of Gray; brothers, Jeffery Partridge of Windham, Donald W. Partridge of Jacksonville, Fla., Kevin Partridge of Cumberland, and Jason Gervais of Raymond; and many nieces and nephews.

Gene was predeceased by his father, Walter L. Partridge; and brother, Bruce Partridge.

A celebration of life will be held at the Windham Chapel of Dolby Blais and Segee, 434 River Road, Windham, on Saturday, Sept. 7. Visiting hours are 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a service at 1 p.m. Reception to follow at the Windham Veteran’s Center.

To express condolences or participate in Gene’s online tribute, please visit www.DolbyBlaisSegee.com