Eugene Charles HAGREEN Sr.

1945 - 2018

HAGREEN, Eugene Charles, Sr. Gene Hagreen was born in Wenatchee, Washington, on September 18, 1945. He passed away on November 19, 2018 in Yuma, Arizona. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 50 years, Mary Lou; parents, William and Edna (Signett) Hagreen; sisters Edna and Starr, and brothers Bill, Don, Gary, and Edward. Gene grew up in Priest River, Idaho, and Spokane, WA. He met Mary Lou Johnson while he was stationed in Alaska for the Army, and they were married in Spokane on July 17, 1965. They had numerous adventures throughout their lives together. Fun and interesting people who enjoyed each other's company, Gene and Mary Lou appreciated their time together, whether exploring a historic location in another state or looking for deer just up the road. Mary Lou got a head start on the next great adventure when she passed away in 2015. Gene and Mary Lou raised their family in Spokane, WA, where he was based as a construction superintendent. Too diverse and substantial a list to include here, his commercial projects can be found all over the region. From an important military installation to a children's hospital, and schools to tribal facilities, the depth of his project portfolio is a legacy that fills his family with pride and has a positive impact on our community. For the last three years, he and his partner Betty Rubertt enjoyed spending time in both Spokane and Yuma. They had a lot of fun traveling together, competing in shuffleboard, and taking their dogs on excursions. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed being on the water, in the forest, or spending time in the desert. He loved to go hunting, fishing, camping, and boating. His diverse hobbies also included golfing, gold panning, ATVing, crabbing, watching movies, playing cards, and reading books. He loved watching his grandkids participate in many sports and made it a priority to attend as many games and events as possible. Interested in many things, he enjoyed reading current events, watching the news, and learning new things. His love of animals was life-long, and he never had a pet he didn't spoil. Gene was a lot of fun! Those who knew him will undoubtedly remember his funny sayings, jokes, and good-natured sense of humor. His immediate and extended family loved to spend time with him, play games, and hear his stories. He took excellent care of his family and he was proud of his children and grandchildren. Gene was a hard-working, good, kind, decent man who was loved deeply. He led an amazing life and was right with God. He will be immensely missed. Gene is survived by his daughter Stacey Hagreen of Olympia, WA; daughter Christy White (Ralph) of Spokane Valley, WA; son JR (Emily) of Columbia Falls, MT; grandsons Trent and Colt White; granddaughter Natalie Hagreen; several special nieces and nephews; and his partner Betty Rubertt of Spokane, WA. A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on January 12, 2019, at Zion Lutheran Church in Spokane Valley, WA. A social gathering will follow the service at a local restaurant. All are welcome.