Gene Hackman and wife Betsy Arakawa laid to rest in a private ceremony in Santa Fe

The family of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, recently held a private memorial to say their final goodbyes. The couple was laid to rest in Santa Fe, New Mexico, nearly two months after their tragic deaths.

The memorial took place on April 15 and was attended by close family and friends. Gene Hackman’s three children — Christopher Allen Hackman, Leslie Anne Hackman, and Elizabeth Jean Hackman — were present at the quiet ceremony. The couple had lived together in Santa Fe for many years.

Hackman, a two-time Oscar-winning actor, and Arakawa, a classical pianist, were found dead in their home on February 26, 2025. Their bodies were discovered by two maintenance workers who had come to the house and noticed the front door was open. One of the couple’s dogs was also found deceased.

At the time of the discovery, Hackman was 95 years old, and Arakawa was 65. The couple had been married since 1991 and were known to live a private life away from the spotlight. Their family released a statement after their passing, expressing deep sorrow and describing Hackman as not only a talented actor loved by many but also as a beloved father and grandfather.

Following their demise, an investigation was launched by local authorities to determine the cause. Days later, the Santa Fe County Sheriff confirmed that autopsies were performed. It was ruled out that carbon monoxide poisoning had played any role in their deaths.

In March, further details were provided by Dr. Heather Jarrell, New Mexico’s Chief Medical Investigator. She revealed that Gene Hackman died from complications related to heart disease — specifically hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Additionally, his condition was worsened by Alzheimer’s disease, which had significantly affected his health in the final years.

Betsy Arakawa’s cause of death was found to be hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare but serious illness that is transmitted by rodents. It is believed she passed away around February 11, based on her last digital communications. Hackman is thought to have died about a week later, on February 18.

Authorities also concluded that the dog likely passed away due to lack of food and water.

While the exact circumstances leading up to the couple’s deaths remain heartbreaking, their family has chosen to remember them fondly. The quiet farewell reflected the private life they lived together.