Darrell M. Vogt, age 79, of Waunakee, passed away on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital.

Darrell was born on July 15, 1946, in Madison, Wisconsin, the son of Carl and Pearl Vogt. He was a graduate of Monona Grove High School and University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point. While attending UW–Stevens Point, he met his future wife, Kathy Firkins, who he married on June 2, 1973.

Darrell proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, working on airplane engines while stationed in Pensacola, Florida. Following his service, he built a long career as a supervisor and plant manager with Oconomowoc Canning Company (Stokely, Chiquita, and Friday brands), where he worked for 25 years.

Darrell was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He cherished time spent with his family, whether playing catch, fishing, playing cards and board games, or traveling together. He and Kathy especially enjoyed visiting wineries along the Missouri wine trail, where they created lasting memories and friendships.

Darrell had a deep passion for woodworking and took pride in crafting projects by hand, particularly creating handmade dovetails using traditional tools. He was an active member of several tool groups and regularly attended tool meets across the United States, where he enjoyed learning, sharing knowledge, and forming meaningful friendships. He also had a love for craft beer and took great pleasure in trying new varieties and connecting with others who shared that interest.

Darrell is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Kathy; his sons, Erik (Lori) Vogt and Bryan (Nicole) Vogt; his sister, Margie (Bill) Klingbeil; his grandchildren, Blake, Lucas, Logan, Alex, and Sofia; his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Colleen (Dave) VandeVoort, Joseph (Joan) Firkins, Michael (Paula) Firkins, Patrick Firkins, Maureen (Kevin) Van Roy, Eileen (Mike) Nick, and Marleen (John) Kurscheidt; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Pearl Vogt; his brother, Richard (“Dick”) Vogt; his parents-in-law, Joseph and Delores Firkins; and other relatives.

Funeral services will be held at Peace Lutheran Church, 701 S. Century Ave., Waunakee, at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 9, 2026, with Rev. Karen Locken presiding, with military honors following the service. Visitation will be held at the church from 9 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will follow at Vienna Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Wounded Warrior Project. The family extends their sincere gratitude to the caring staff at the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital for their compassionate care of Darrell.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com Winn-Cress Funeral Service