WAUNAKEE - Eugene “Gene” Edward Smith, 96, of Waunakee, passed away peacefully with family by his side the afternoon of Sunday, March 10, 2024.

Gene was born January 19, 1928, the youngest of 9 to John and Ida (Klingsell) Smith. In high school he participated in track and boxing and graduated from Lodi High School in 1945. Gene was united in marriage to Catherine Richards on June 30, 1956, and they celebrated 63 years of marriage prior to her passing on January 4, 2020.

Gene was proud to serve his country in the U.S. Navy starting at the end of World War II and during the Korean War, and then served in the Naval Reserve for 20 plus years. He was employed most of his adult life in various roles at Wisconsin Power and Light until his retirement.

Gene was an outdoorsman, loved being outside, yard work, hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and especially enjoyed time spent at the family cabin.

Gene is survived by his son, Perry (Debbie), grandchildren, Amanda (Josh) Nadler and Jonathan Smith, and great grandchildren, Noah and Allison Nadler. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Gene was preceded in death by his wife, Catherine; his parents; all of his siblings, Marge, Vernon, Jim, Leo, Kay, Rose, Ralph, and Eunice; Catherine’s siblings, George, Alvin, Irene, Shirley and Dorothy, and his lifelong friend, Toby Thistle.

Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON LODI FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 157 S. Main St., Lodi, at 11 a.m., Friday, March 15, 2024, with Reverend Ellen Keyser presiding. Burial will be at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery with Military Honors. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Agrace.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Agrace team for the exceptional care and compassion in caring for Gene, especially during his last week with us.

Dad, Grandpa, Great Grandpa - your love, guidance, kindness, and laughter are an inspiration to all of us. Each of us have special memories of the time spent with you and we will treasure them always. Rest in peace and enjoy your reunion with all of your loved ones.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com

Gunderson Lodi

Funeral & Cremation Care

157 S. Main St.

(608) 592-3201

Eugene Edward Smith

January 19, 1928 - March 10, 2024

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