MCFARLAND - Gene Simpson passed away on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from complications of posterior cortical atrophy, a rare neurodegenerative disorder. Despite a steady, five-year decline, he remained the bighearted, loving person that he always was. He will be deeply missed.

Gene was born in Stoughton, Wis., on October 14, 1946, to Hattie and Morris Simpson. He grew up as the third oldest child on the family farm in the Town of Dunn. Gene was part of the inaugural class of McFarland High School, and he played on the school’s state championship 1964 football team. He also served in the Army National Guard and was able to participate in a Badger Honor Flight in 2024.

He married Susan Turgasen in 1969, and they lived for a time on Madison’s east side. They started their family there before moving back to the Town of Dunn. Gene enjoyed spending time with friends and family - hunting, fishing, boating, golfing and playing cards. He worked for 40 years at Webcrafters in Madison. After retiring, he was able to enjoy his passion for both home repairs and being a good neighbor as a handyman at the Shenandoah Apartments in Madison. Gene could build or fix most anything and was known to travel with tools “just in case.” We will miss him for that, but more so for his good-humored joking and kindness.

Gene is survived by Sue, his wife of 56 years; and his siblings, Joy (Don) Lederman, Sue Renee Simpson and Gregg (Brenda) Simpson. He is also survived by his daughters, Lisa (Matthew) Simpson and Sara Sieger; and his beloved grandchildren, Ava Sieger, Rowan Sieger and Anna Coan; plus many nieces and nephews, special neighbors and treasured friends. Gene was preceded in his death by his parents; and by his brother, Wayne (Sue) Simpson.

Gene was fortunate to have so many people in his life who loved him. Your kindness carried him through his final years with grace and dignity. Gene’s family wants to thank you all from the bottom of our hearts. We would also like to thank Ellen Turgasen, BeeHive Homes of Oregon and the Agrace Hospice staff for the care that they showed towards Gene and our family at the end of his life.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 12 noon on Friday, January 30, 2026. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday.

For those who wish to make a donation in memory of Gene, remembrances may be made to Three Gaits Inc. or The Road Home Dane Co. Gene enjoyed the Three Gaits “Riding in the Moment” program. This program supports adults with dementia, and their families and friends, by enjoying time with horses and in nature in Stoughton, Wis.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Gene R Simpson

October 14, 1946 - January 17, 2026

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