Eugene Thomas Kenton, Lewes native

After graduating, Gene served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era, where his baseball talent was recognized and he played ball in Germany for the Army. He loved to travel and was able to see the world through his time in the service. 

Gene traveled around the country, where he was married and had a daughter in California. After the divorce, he ended up back in his home state and built a successful business, Gene Kenton Painting, that he ran for 40 years in Bethany Beach.

He loved the Baltimore Ravens and Orioles, harness racing (where he owned several race horses over the early 2000s), golf, fishing, bow hunting, traveling, people watching on the boardwalk, live music (Neil Diamond was his favorite), and hosting parties, where he could watch friends and family enjoy themselves. He was 18 years sober and was a grateful friend of Bill W. 

He is preceded in death by his brother, Nelson Kenton of Milford; and his life partner of 30 years, Katie Peterson, whom he shared a beautiful life with before her passing in 2018. 

He is survived by his daughter, Sheri Kenton of Frankford; his stepson, Eric Peterson of Huntingtown, Md.; seven grandchildren (being Pop Pop was his greatest joy): Eric Peterson Jr. (deceased), Bridgette and Morgan Baker, Tommy Mclaughlin, and Nancy, Delaney and Vivian Peterson. He was a beloved big brother and is also survived by William “Billy” Kenton of Dagsboro, Janet Swain of Lincoln, Elsie Kenton of Greenwood and Helena Pepper of Milton. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins. 

A Celebration of Life for friends and family will begin at 2 p.m., Sunday, March 5, at Slaughter Beach Fire Hall, 359 Bay Ave., Milford.

Condolences and memories can be shared on Gene’s memorial wall at everloved.com/life-of/eugene-kenton/obituary.