Eugene Theodore "Gene" Decot, Jr., age 82, of Waunakee, passed away Monday, May 4, 2026 on his 82nd birthday. He was born May 4, 1944 to Eugene Theodore "Ted" and Gladys Marie (Hendrickson) Decot.

Gene was raised on a farm in Rio, where he learned the value of hard work early in life. As the second oldest of three children, he spent much of his youth helping around the farm. He graduated from Rio High School in 1962.

Gene held a variety of jobs after high school, including work at a canning company and a foundry. He later worked cutting meat at Hersam Meat and Provisions in Madison for approximately five years before finding his long-term career at Engineering Industries in Verona as a tool and die maker. He dedicated 38 years to his work there before retiring.

Outside of work, Gene had many passions. He enjoyed motorcycles, shooting pool, and had a particular fondness for Ford vehicles. He loved music, movies, and traveling out west. He was a supporter of the NRA as well as an avid deer hunter and trap shooter. Gene was always ready to share his favorite, a Coca-Cola, with friends and family.

He is survived by his daughters Christene Marie Decot of Stoughton and Carrie Ann (Jay) Maier of Poynette; granddaughters Chloe Crubaugh of Middleton and Nikita Crubaugh of Appleton; and grandsons Chase Maier and Ryder Maier, both of Poynette. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Annette Lalor; brother Gerald "Jerry" Decot; infant brother Gene Carroll Decot; twin infant sisters Georgette Jeanne and Charlotte Elleen Decot; and infant sister Gloria May Decot.

Memorial Service will be held Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. at Grasse Funeral Home in Rio. Visitation will be held from 9:00 A.M.–11:00 A.M. on Tuesday. Interment will be held at Ohio Cemetery. Luncheon to follow at the funeral home.