Ralph (Gene) E. Shreve, Sr., 83, of Sparks, NV passed away on Friday, February 23, 2007 at home.

He was born in Sheridan, WY on July 23, 1923. Gene was a wonderful fiddle player, as well as a country music recording artist. He was a U.S. Navy Sea-bee in World War II, serving his country in the Pacific Arena. He later retired from Harrah's Casino in Reno, NV. He and his wife Lucile owned and operated the Nic Nac Shelf Ceramic Shop in Sparks, NV for over 30 years.

He loved fishing, hunting, camping, and instilled the love of the outdoors in those around him. He was also an expert ping pong player, as well as a metal sculpture. His favorite sayings were "I've got great kids," and I've been married to that lady for over 60 years". He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Ralph was preceded in death by son, Randy Shreve, and daughter, Sheila Shreve.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Lucile Blevins Shreve; sons, Ralph (Gene) Shreve Jr. and wife Pearl of Yuma, AZ; Gary and wife Ginger Shreve of Hereford, AZ; daughters, Sande and husband Roy Bryant of Woodstock, GA; Sherry Shreve of Sparks, NV; sister, Margaret Dillon of Odessa, MO; 11 grandchildren: Angie, Teresa, Shawnna, Steven, Jeremy, Adam, Justin, Mathew, Roy Jr., Michael, and Breeanna; and 11 great-grandchildren: Britney, Jake, Ashley, Liberty, Joshua, Haven, Little J, Joshua, Riley, Ethan, and Colin.

Open House Memorial to be held at 270 Virgil Drive in Sparks on March 1, 2007, from 3 to 8 p.m.

Reno Gazette-Journal - Feb. 28, 2007.