Eugene Edward “Gene” Duffy, 84, of Howard, passed away on October 3, 2026, following a courageous journey with Alzheimer’s disease, with his family by his side.

Gene was born on May 13, 1942, in Oconto Falls to the late Edward and Iris Duffy. He graduated from Gillett High School with the Class of 1960.

In June 1962, Gene married Barbara Vandreel. This year, they celebrated 64 years of marriage—a lifetime filled with love, family, and cherished memories. Together, Gene and Barb raised three children: Randell, Justine, and Richard. Through all the seasons of life, Barb remained by his side, and the life and family they built together was something Gene treasured deeply.

Gene was employed by Procter & Gamble for 35½ years before retiring in 1997. Following his retirement, Gene and Barb moved to White Potato Lake, where they lived for 17 years. Gene became an active and dedicated member of the community. He was involved with both the Sportsman's Club and the Snowmobile Club and took great pride in grooming the local snowmobile trails for 15 years. He also dedicated many years of service to the White Potato Lake Sewer District, serving as president until his retirement in 2013.

Gene was happiest enjoying the simple things in life. He loved fishing, deer hunting, camping, and snowmobiling, and it was rare for him to miss his daily walk. He was also an avid Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers fan. But more important than any hobby were the people with whom he shared his life. Gene was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a loving grandpa and great-grandpa. His family was an important part of his life, and the memories made together over the years will continue to be treasured by those who loved him.

Gene is survived by his loving wife, Barbara; his sons, Randell (Diane) Duffy and Richard (Debbie) Duffy; and his son-in-law, Barry Topel. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Mike (Emilie) Duffy, Chris (Melissa) Duffy, Tiffany DeBauche, Stephanie (Jacob) Piper, Brandon (Madison) Duffy, and Blake (Samantha) Duffy; 12 great-grandchildren; and seven godchildren.

Gene is further survived by his brothers, Denny, Frank, and Robert; and his in-laws, Nancy Yost and Lester Vandreel.

He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Justine Topel, in 2023; his twin brother, James; his sister-in-law, Jean Graef; his nephew, Joe Duffy; his parents, Edward and Iris Duffy; and his in-laws, Lester and Dora Vandreel. Gene was also preceded in death by his beloved dog, Tator, who was a faithful companion and a special part of Gene and Barb's lives for many years.

Gene's family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to nurses Amber and Amanda from Alpha, the team at Unity Hospice, and Dr. Hess of Emplify Health for the compassionate care and support they provided to Gene and his family.

Gene leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a family who loved him dearly. Though he will be deeply missed, the life he lived, the family he helped build, and the many memories shared with him will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A visitation for Gene will be held on Tuesday, October 13, at Ss. Edward and Isidore Catholic Church in Flintville, from 10:00am to 11:00am with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow. An entombment will take place at Nicolet Memorial Gardens the next day.