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Tragic End: The Heartwarming Legacy of Gene Hackman and His Love for Rescue Dogs

BBG News

Gene Hackman and his spouse, Betsy, were deeply devoted pet owners, often regarding their cherished canine companions as if they were their own offspring. Tragically, they were discovered deceased in their residence in New Mexico just a week ago, according to friends, who shared this information with DailyMail.com.

The shocking news that the couple was discovered deceased alongside their German Shepherd has left friends, admirers, and the local community bewildered. Remarkably, their remaining two dogs were still alive at the residence.

The investigators are still figuring out what led to Hackman’s death. Nevertheless, individuals familiar with his family describe him as a compassionate person, adding that he and Betsy were loving dog owners who would never intentionally subject their pets to any danger.

Steff Smith, founder of the Southwest German Shepherd Society in Phoenix, Arizona, shared with DailyMail.com during an exclusive interview that Gene was deeply passionate about German Shepherds, to the point where it’s hard to envision him without one by his side.

He was equally known for his tender heart. I vividly remember him tearing up when he first met the canine he adopted from our shelter.

He had a soft spot, too. I distinctly remember seeing him get emotional upon meeting the dog he adopted through us.

In the early 2000s, Hackman (age 95) and his wife Betsy Arakawa (age 64) decided to take in two shelter dogs and have since been dedicated supporters and friends of the charitable organization, as shared by Smith.

In the year 2005, Smith encountered the couple for the first time. At that moment, they were on a quest to find a new companion for their dog Duke, the German Shepherd that actor Hackman had taken in as a stray during the filming of The Replacements back in 1999.

Smith organized a gathering at a local park to observe how Duke, their new family member, interacted with Maisie, a young German Shepherd. Soon enough, Maisie became an integral part of the Hackman household.

Smith mentioned that they had taken their dog, Duke, along with them. They were lodging at an upscale resort in the vicinity of Phoenix or Scottsdale, and they reached out to him.

As a devoted fanatic, I can assure you that Betsy stands shoulder to shoulder with the giants in our field. Her unwavering dedication to their wellbeing is unparalleled; if even a minor issue like a hangnail arises, she’s quick to dive deep into a thorough examination.

Smith fondly reminisced, “When I think of Betsy, the word that pops into my mind is ‘warm.’ She’s not only warm-hearted but also generous. However, she has a keen intellect and can be quite astute as well.

For a long time, we’ve been in touch, sharing photos, watching Maisie and Duke frolic around our land, enjoying swims together, engaging in all sorts of fun activities – you can imagine the variety!

Living with a German Shepherd is more akin to sharing your space with a close roommate rather than just owning a pet. Their loyalty and bond seem to revolve around one particular person.

Two years later in 2007, the couple returned after their beloved Duke died. 

‘It gave you an indication that Gene could not be without a dog that he lost very long at all.’ 

Enter Roscoe, a handsome male German Shepherd who became Maisie’s new bestie.

Smith posted pictures from that special day on DailyMail.com, showcasing Roscoe being welcomed by the Hackman family. Everyone was beaming as they met their latest furry addition.

As a devoted admirer, I’ve managed to keep a connection with them over time, maintaining our long-distanced friendship. There simply aren’t two more amiable and thoughtful individuals you could hope to encounter, as the German Shepherd expert shared with DailyMail.com.

Back in 1999, during the filming of The Replacements in Baltimore, I stumbled upon two lost German Shepherds within the Ravens Stadium. Fate had it that these pups and I were destined to form a bond. So, I brought Duke home, and he’s been my loyal companion ever since.

Phil Staelens recalls the day when two dogs showed up at his Pennsylvania-based animal shelter, courtesy of a luxurious limo sent by the actor himself.

‘These two German Shepherds were about one or two years old. We named them Gene and Keanu.

‘In the end, Gene chose to take home one of the dogs, originally named Gene, but he decided to rename him Duke as a tribute to his friend John Wayne,’ said Staelens, who along with Grace Froelich established Animal Rescue, Inc. in New Freedom, Pennsylvania back in 1978.

The other pup, Keanu, was adopted by another loving family Staelens told DailyMail.com.

According to Staelens, they were remarkably modest individuals, quite pleasant. Gene, in particular, seemed ordinary. He had no particular desires or ambitions.

Betsy eventually pitched in with volunteer work during the filming. She handled everything, including cleaning up after pets.

The popular Animal Rescue, Inc. is home to some 500 dogs and cats, all available for adoption. 

For almost half a century, this non-profit organization has provided a sanctuary for homeless animals and taken the lead in its feline spaying and neutering initiatives.

Speaking about it, Smith noted that the way they departed just amplified the pain of our loss. He shared an interesting detail – the Hackman residence had a pet door, so their beloved pets could freely come and go outdoors.

As far as the use of a dog crate, their pet could have been older and/or had a medical challenge.

According to Smith, the Hackmans viewed their dogs similar to how they viewed their own children, always ensuring they stayed away from any danger.

They regularly took in rescued animals, which speaks volumes about their character. Clearly, they are compassionate animal enthusiasts, and among the most kind-hearted individuals you could meet.

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2025-03-04 17:52

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