By Ellite Times Team 
A Devoted Wife and Hollywood Legend
Due to heart complications alongside Alzheimer’s, the legendary actor Gene Hackman who was famous for his roles in The French Connection, Superman, and Unforgiven died at the age of 95. His wife, 65-year-old Betsy Arakawa, a week before passed away from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare disease caused by rodent exposure.
The unfortunate couple was discovered at their Santa Fe residence on February 26 after security personnel performed a routine welfare check. The news has left the community in shock as friends and neighbors mourn the loss of a couple who was an integral part of their lives.
Putting Together the Puzzle: The Order of the Events That Took Place
Authorities believe that Arakawa died on February 11, which was the last day she was spotted running several errands including going to the grocery store, pharmacy, and pet shop. It is assumed that after her passing, Hackman who was in debilitating stages of Alzheimer’s was unaware of her death. From abnormally beating pacemaker, it can be suggested that he died on the 18.
No signs of forced entry or foul play were detected. Still, the tragic manner of death suggests a bleak combination of solitude, sickness, and the ravaging effects of dementia.
The Devastating Effects of Alzheimer’s Disease
The Alzheimer’s disease probably contributed to Hackman’s inability to seek assistance after his spouse’s death. Medical professionals posit that in his shambles, he might not have appreciated that she was gone. Alzheimer’s is the disorder that wrecks memory and thinking, and functions on a person to the point of requiring constant care, sometimes rendering the individual unable to perform several activities. If Arakawa was his primary caregiver, her unexpected disappearance may have worsened his condition.
Hantavirus: A Rare but Lethal Disease
Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, caused by hantavirus, claimed Arakawa’s life. Although unquestionably rare, this syndrome is potentially deadly as it comes from exposure to the droppings of infected rodents. It has only been recorded in New Mexico, where 136 cases and nearly half of them have died from it over the past 50 years. Investigating bodies discovered evidence of rodent infestations on the couple’s property, but considered the couple’s home quite safe. The methods through which she got the virus are still being worked upon.
A Life of Love and Commitment
After more than three decades of love and companionship, Hackman and Arakawa married in 1991. They met each other for the first time in a California gym in the mid 1980s. Although Hackman was famous in Hollywood during this period, both he and his wife led a serene life in Santa Fe where both were known for their love towards literature, arts and animals.
Like most devoted wives, Arakawa cared for Hackman’s health and well being. She made sure that her husband was physically active by encouraging him to cycle, do yoga and even assisted him in typing and editing his novels. Friends remember both of them recalling the beautiful bond they shared, and how Arakawa did everything possible to keep Hackman happy.
Questions That are Left Unanswered
Although many details are now known concerning the death of the couple, what remains unknown is the reason behind their deaths. Investigators are now looking into the couple’s phones to find any possible communication that occurred before their death. Furthermore, authorities are also awaiting necropsy results of one of the couple’s three dogs that was found dead in a crate next to Arakawa. The two other dogs were alive which means they had some access to food and water.
An Emotional Goodbye
Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s unfortunate deaths have greatly impacted those who were in their inner circle. Friends characterize them as a tender, affectionate pair who cherished their privacy and lived a peaceful life together. After Hackman’s retirement from Hollywood in the early 2000s, he focused on painting and writing as Arakawa continued supporting his endeavors.
Their tale serves as a stark reminder about life’s most fundamental essentials such as human connection, care, and the fragility of existence. They, along with true friends from Hollywood, mourn the sad demise of Betsy and Gene, knowing fully well that their decade-long legacy of love and commitment shall remain etched in their hearts forever.