Gene Austin Troutman

Gene Austin Troutman, 96, of Vienna, Illinois, passed away Wednesday evening, January 1, 2025, at 9:04 P.M. at Southgate Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Metropolis, Illinois. Gene was born on September 25, 1928, in Carbondale, Illinois, to Charles and Stella (Smith) Troutman. Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Stella; his brother, Levere; his sister, Kathleen; and his stepson, Anthony Buchan. Gene is survived by his loving wife, Margaret (Lowery) Troutman, and his stepchildren, Patrick Buchan and Amy Holloman. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Jessica Buchan (Travis Thomas), Seth Holloman (Macy), and Gabriel Holloman, as well as his great-grandchildren, Laelle and Emet Holloman. Gene attended elementary, grade school, and high school in Carbondale, Illinois, before being drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War, where he served from 1950 to 1952. He trained at Camp McCoy in Wisconsin. After his service, Gene pursued training in mechanics and television electronics and broadcasting, which aligned with his passion for electronics. He worked for General Electric in New York as a maintenance engineer before returning to Southern Illinois when the plant closed. Later, Gene worked for the Illinois Department of Corrections in Vienna, Illinois, where he retired. Gene married his beloved wife, Margaret, on November 18, 1994. They shared many years of love and laughter. Gene was an active member of Vienna First Baptist Church and enjoyed tinkering with electronics in his spare time. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His favorite movie, Short Circuit, reflected his playful personality and his deep love for technology. Gene was known for his quick wit, strong opinions, and a spunky personality that made him unforgettable. His intelligence and ability to solve problems were only matched by his sharp sense of humor and playful spirit. He was never afraid to speak his mind and was loved for his lively presence and candid nature. Gene will be deeply missed but never forgotten. A memorial service honoring the life of Gene Troutman will be conducted Saturday afternoon, January 11, 2025, at 1 P.M. at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. Rodney Gholson will officiate. Military flag presentation will be accorded at the funeral home. Private interment will be at a later date in Vienna Fraternal Cemetery. The family will receive relatives and friends from 12 Noon until the service time at 1 P.M. Saturday, January 11, 2025, at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Mercy Health Hospice, 225 Medical Center Drive, Suit3 203, Paducah, Kentucky 42003

Gene Austin Troutman

September 25, 1928 - January 1, 2025