Gene Haba passed away peacefully October 6, 2014 in his home overlooking Puget Sound. Born February 27, 1953 in Yakima, Washington, Gene mainly attended school in West Seattle, graduating in 1971 from WSHS, where he was involved in Honor Society, track, cross country and skiing. He attended the University of Washington, graduating as a civil engineer.

After college Gene, Greg Gracey and Rob Pedersen ventured around Europe. He spent one winter in Germany on the International Ski Patrol. When he returned home, he worked for many different engineering firms, the last being Meng Analysis.

Gene was goal oriented, accomplishing a lot in his life. As a youth he and his buddies hung out at the former West Seattle Speedway racing slot cars. He won several awards for the best model builder at West Seattle Sporting Goods. For 30+ years he was a member of the Alpental Ski Patrol. Very talented, Gene built two of his own houses and helped his parents build three others. He also formed his own company “Beyond Street Appeal.” Always healthy and fit, Gene participated in Seafair Torchlight Runs and triathlons around Seattle. He found cooking relaxing.

An all around outstanding man, meticulous, kind and with humor that snuck up on you, Gene was the best son, brother and friend anyone could have.

Gene is survived by his parents, Henry and Clara Haba, sister, Charlene Haba, and wife, Shelley Estep Haba (all of West Seattle).

Enduring brain cancer for four years, Gene outlived the odds against him. Special thanks to the Neuro Oncology Dept. at the UW, special friends, Greg and Marilyn Gracey, and his live-in caregivers, Nancy and Patricia, for their care of Gene.

A private memorial service was held.

Published in The West Seattle Herald Section of The Westside Weekly October 24, 2014