Gene Hackman, wife Betsy Arakawa laid to rest in Santa Fe

ANI April 16, 2025 158 views

Gene Hackman, a legendary Hollywood actor, and his wife Betsy Arakawa were recently laid to rest in a private Santa Fe memorial. The couple, who had been married since 1991, were found deceased in their home after Betsy contracted hantavirus and Gene suffered from advanced health complications. Their three children gathered to honor their parents' memory and celebrate their life together. The Hackmans had quietly retreated from public life following Gene's retirement from acting, making their final public appearance just weeks before their passing.

"The couple's legacy will be remembered by their loving family" - People Magazine
Washington, April 16: Veteran actor Gene Hackman and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, have been laid to rest following a private memorial attended by close family and friends in Santa Fe.

Key Points

1

Gene Hackman died from heart disease and Alzheimer's complications

2

Betsy Arakawa passed from rare hantavirus

3

Private memorial attended by three children

4

Couple married since 1991 and lived quietly in Santa Fe

According to People magazine, the service included the couple's three children, Christopher, Elizabeth, and Leslie, who gathered to honour the late pair's lives and legacy.

The Hackmans were found deceased in their Santa Fe Summit home on February 26.

Weeks later, authorities confirmed that Betsy had passed away from hantavirus, a rare but serious illness contracted through exposure to rodent droppings.

Gene, the two-time Academy Award-winning actor known for his prolific career, died shortly after from complications related to heart disease, hypertension, and advanced Alzheimer's.

Also discovered with the couple was their pet dog Zinna, a kelpie mix, who had succumbed to dehydration and starvation.

Two other dogs on the property were found alive and are now under care, as per People magazine.

Married since 1991, Gene and Betsy had largely retreated from public life following Gene's retirement from acting.

People magazine reported their final public appearance together was in March 2024, when they were seen dining at a local seafood restaurant in Santa Fe.

Reader Comments

M
Melissa T.
Such a heartbreaking story. They seemed like such a devoted couple. Rest in peace together ❤️ My thoughts are with their children during this difficult time.
J
James K.
Gene Hackman was one of the greatest actors of our time. The French Connection and Unforgiven are absolute masterpieces. Sad to hear about his struggles with Alzheimer's at the end.
S
Sarah L.
The part about their dog Zinna really got to me. So tragic all around. Glad the other two pups were found in time and are being cared for.
R
Robert P.
While this is certainly sad, I wish the article had focused more on their lives rather than the circumstances of their deaths. They both had such remarkable careers that deserve celebration.
A
Amanda W.
Hantavirus is so scary - makes me want to be extra careful about cleaning. But mostly I'm just sad thinking about their family discovering them like that. Can't imagine 😔
D
David M.
Their 33-year marriage is inspiring in today's world. They clearly loved each other deeply. That last restaurant outing photo is so touching - little did they know...

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Tags:
Gene Hackman Betsy Arakawa Hollywood Actor Santa Fe Memorial Celebrity Death
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