Gene Conte, 88, of Du Quoin, passed away at 12:30 A.M., Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at his residence.
Gene had worked at the Coca-Cola Bottling Company in Du Quoin.  He had also worked as a garage foreman at Freeman United Coal Company for many years.  Gene was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Du Quoin.  He was an avid turkey hunter and was a member of the National Wild Turkey Federation.  He enjoyed fishing and was an avid outdoorsman.  Gene was a Du Quoin Indian fan and a member of NRA.
He was born November 24, 1936 in Du Quoin, IL, the son of Wante and Mildred (Gulley) Conte.
He married Ellen Schue on May 14, 1960 at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Du Quoin and she preceded him in death on January 23, 2022.
He is survived by two daughters - Jane Conte and Sandy Stanhouse, both of Du Quoin, three grandchildren - Christy Conte of West Frankfort, Taylor Stanhouse of Du Quoin, and Alicia Pyatt and husband Taylor of St. Louis, one great grandchild - Maverick Beliveau of West Frankfort and another great grandson on the way, and one sister-in-law - Barb Conte of Du Quoin.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and one brother - Bob Conte.
Friends may call from 5 to 7 P.M., Friday, November 14, 2025 at the Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin.
Friends may make memorials to Robert Conte Scholarship with donations made to Du Quoin #300 Educational Foundation and will be accepted at the funeral home.