Gene Edward Hartrich

Captain Gene Edward Hartrich of Greenbrae passed away peacefully at home on July 24, 2015. On May 1st he celebrated his 93rd birthday with a celebration of his life at a fun party with his family, friends, and neighbors. Gene was born in Merigold, Mississippi on May 1st, 1922 to Frances and James Picquet Hartrich. A graduate of Collierville High School in TN. He was a true gentleman and was kind, handsome, generous, smart, witty and had a great sense of humor. Gene had an uncanny ability to strike up a friendly conversation with anyone he might meet, and he had a real knack for bringing out the best in people. Gene was a WWII veteran and Korean War veteran, flying many missions as a Lt. 1st Class during his service with the United States Air Force. After a total of seven years of active duty, he was honorably discharged to accept a job with United Airlines. In 1946 he married the love of his life, Shirley Jane Whisler, in Brush, Colorado. They had 64 wonderful years together in California, Colorado, New Hampshire, New Jersey and Hawaii, finally settling in Greenbrae with a lovely view of Mt. Tamalpais. Gene and Shirley loved to sail, play golf and tennis, camp, fish, watch sports, travel and socialize with their wide circle of friends. Gene was a Captain for United Airlines for 38 years, flying all over the world. In 1982 he flew his last official flight on a 747 to Hawaii with his family on board. After retirement they split their time between California and Hawaii, having relaxing times at the Keauhou Kona Yacht Club, and sailing with his family and friends. He also enjoyed golf at Peacock Gap and he was an expert at his hobby of flying/navigating his video flight simulator. Gene and Shirley raised two wonderful sons, Robert Hartrich of Petaluma, California and James Hartrich of Aspen, Colorado. Gene is also survived by his beloved daughter-in-law Linda Hartrich of Petaluma, beloved daughter-in-law Carole Fisher and three loving grandsons Derek Hartrich (Nicole), Coulton Hartrich (Juliana) and Tyler Hartrich. He was especially adored by his two sweet great-granddaughters Vanessa and Charlotte of Petaluma. Gene also leaves numerous friends, cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friend Caroline Hartrich. His beautiful wife Shirley passed away in 2010. Special thanks to his dedicated caregivers from Miracle Hands Homecare in San Rafael. A private family memorial celebration of his life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a small donation to your favorite charity. Rest in peace Grandpa Gene! Fly with the angels in heaven. "You are My Sunshine". "You Are the Wind Beneath My Wings". We love you and we will miss you Captain!