Gene Hackman and wife Betsy Arakawa’s love was on full display throughout their home at the time of their deaths.
In photos released by the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, several handwritten notes were scattered around the house where Hackman and Arakawa’s dead bodies were discovered in February.
In one letter, Hackman wished Arakawa a “good morning” and “happy several days after your birthday.” The note was an apology with Hackman writing, “Sorry still about the dinner and having to ask for your help, although it was appreciated. Love you and the guys.”
Hackman seemed to be joking with his wife in another inscription. “I’m going down to that building out past the hot water place where you sit, and do what ever it is that people are supposed to do in such a building — maybe I’ll remember once I get down there,” the note read, which was signed, “Love, what’s his name.”
Arakawa penned a separate update to Hackman, explaining she was taking one of their dogs to a class and an appointment at the vet. “See you back at home!” the letter read. “There is a jigsaw puzzle on the table.” The note was signed, “Xo B.”
Hackman also wrote about seeing baby robins outside of his shower, explaining where she could find them. “Hope you get to see them,” he added.
In February, Hackman and Arakawa were found dead at ages 95 and 65, respectively. After news broke of their deaths, Hackman’s daughters, Elizabeth Jean and Leslie Anne, released a statement with granddaughter Annie. (Hackman shared his two daughters and son Christopher Allen with ex-wife Faye Maltese.)
Recommended Article
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy,” the trio shared in a statement to Us Weekly. “He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us he was always just Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him sorely and are devastated by the loss.”
Hackman’s official cause of death was hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease with Alzheimer’s disease listed as a significant contributing factor. While authorities believe Hackman died on February 18, Arakawa likely died on February 12. Arakawa’s cause of death is Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), which is a rare, airborne infectious disease from rodent urine, droppings or saliva.
The Oscar winner and Arakawa were reportedly laid to rest earlier this month. People reported that a private memorial was held for Hackman and Arakawa in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and was attended by his three children.
