Mr. Eugene "Gene" J. Bove, 95, beloved husband of Ann (Roberts) Bove, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, November 9, 2025 surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Bristol on November 4, 1930, Gene was the son of the late Costantino and Annunziata (Pagano) Bove. He grew up working at his family owned market, Bove and Sons, in Bristol. He served in the US Army during the Korean War and was a Bronze Star recipient. He was a member of the American Legion Post 2 in Bristol. He went on to work as a tool and die maker at Cedar Metals in Wolcott for over 40 years. Following his retirement, he worked at the Wolcott Transfer Station.

For over 50 years, Gene was a member of the Wolcott Volunteer Fire Dept. Co. 2. He served on many committees and was so well respected that the fire department named the station hall after him. He was a lifelong member of Bristol Baptist Church, now known as Bridge Community Church.

All who knew him will remember his quick wit, love of friendly competition, and generous spirit. He was an avid horseshoe player, a cribbage master, and a jokester who could always brighten up a room. Every year, he made his own homemade wine, turning it into a cherished family tradition that brought everyone together to share stories, laughter, and a glass (or two). Whether he was cracking a joke, telling one of his famous stories, or teaching someone the finer points of a good game, he had a way of making everyone feel welcome and at ease.

Gene's greatest love was his family, especially his "honey" Ann, to whom he was married  for over 68 years. He also leaves his sons Paul and his wife Michelle Bove of Wolcott, Mark and his wife Michelle "Shelly" Bove of Wolcott; his son-in-law Keith Smith-Bove of California; his six grandchildren Jessica (Vincenzo) Parziale, Mark (Bethany) Bove, Andrew Bove and his girlfriend Kaylee Rabideau, Raeann Bove and her boyfriend Troy Kafka, Jared Smith-Bove, Lauren Smith-Bove; and his four great- grandchildren Rocco and Ava Parziale, Eleanor and Luke Bove. He is also survived by Christine Poulson of Maine, who was like a daughter to him; his Brother-in law Paul (Patricia) Roberts of Florida, his Sister-in-law Patricia Bove of California, his niece Nancy Gienty and several more nieces and nephews. Gene was predeceased by his beloved son Todd Smith-Bove, his sister Nina Pagano, and his three brothers Alexander, Remy, and Dr. Peter Bove.

Calling hours will be on Sunday Nov. 16th from 3 to 6 PM at Woodtick Memorial 420 Woodtick Rd in Wolcott. Funeral Services will be held Monday Nov. 17th beginning at 10 AM at Bridge Community Church 43 School St. in Bristol. Please meet directly at the church on Monday. Burial with full military honors will follow at Edgewood Cemetery in Wolcott. Woodtick Memorial is honored to serve the Bove family at this time. You may visit www.woodtickmemorial.com for online tributes and more information. In lieu of flowers please make memorial contributions to Wolcott Volunteer Fire Dept. Co. 2 or the Wolcott Volunteer Ambulance Co.