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Eugene G. Zukas, Ph.D., 89, a resident of Rio Rancho and former long-time resident of Los Alamos, passed away on February 10, 2011. Gene graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 1942. He served with Special Engineering Detachment of Los Alamos. Upon discharge from the service, he returned to the University of Pittsburgh, receiving a Master degree in Metallurgical Engineering. He received his Ph.D. from Lehigh University. Gene returned to Los Alamos in 1952, becoming a staff member of CMR Division for 35 years. He authored several scientific papers, receiving the Jacquet-Lucas Award for excellence in Metallography and the Best of Show award at the 1998 International Metallographic Exhibit. He is life member of the American Society of Metals and was named as a fellow in 1980. He also received an award from the Dept. of Defense for his scientific contributions. He received an award from Los Alamos National Laboratory for his sustained contributions in plutonium metallurgy. Gene was preceded in death by his parents Mary and Joseph Zukas; his brothers Florian, Carl, Robert, Joseph, Linus, and sisters Josephine Keys, Eleanor, and Virginia. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Martha; his daughter Pamela Rogers (Geoff Miller) of Los Alamos; his son James "Tim" Zukas (Linda) of Clarksville, IN; grandchildren, who will deeply miss him, Katheryne McGuire (Josh), Erica Miller of Athens, GA and Nicolas Miller of Los Alamos; great-granddaughter Shirley Elizabeth of Clarksville, IN, and sister Emily Prusack (Peter) of Pennsylvania. Gene loved hunting, fishing, bowling and belonged to a special poker group in Los Alamos. He was a duplicate bridge player. He spent many years coaching Little League ball and was a member of the founding board of Jemez House in Alcalde - a home for troubled boys. He was a member of the United Church of Los Alamos and served on many committees. In Rio Rancho he attended the Rio Rancho Presbyterian Church and the West Mesa Christian Church. The family is grateful for the support provided by Presbyterian Home Health Care, nurse Laura, caregiver Delphina and their special friends Bill and Joanne Claybrook and Reggie and Hal Behl. Cremation has taken place and a family memorial service will be held at a later date; interment will be in Los Alamos, NM at a later date. Those who wish to express their condolences may do so at www.danielsfuneral.com. Eugene's care has been entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services 2400 Southern Blvd SE Rio Rancho, NM 87124 (505) 891-9192
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