A Memorial Service will be held at “The Attic” on Saturday, November 21st in downtown Sumner:
The Attic
823 Main Street
Suite A
Sumner WA 98390
For a Google Map click here.
The service will be held from 1:00PM to 5:00PM
Food will be provided.
We expect well over a 100 people in attendance.
Please join us as we celebrate Gene’s life. Family members and friends will be given the opportunity to share stories about Gene and his life.
Please join us. If you have any questions please feel free to leave them in the comments and I will do my best to respond.
Advertisement
29 comments
Comments feed for this article
November 11, 2009 at 9:42 am
melanie purcell
Gene was one of the funniest people ever. he loved his stories and told them with great gusto and passion. no subject was taboo with Gene. no comment was too outrageous. he was unique in spirit; adored Linda and wasn’t afraid to tell the world.
he will be greatly missed.
November 11, 2009 at 11:44 am
Roger Dunn
it is a damned shame that Gene checked out too early. My deepest sympathies to Linda and his kids.
November 11, 2009 at 1:38 pm
Patty Rakes
I am so sad, Pilar, Greg and Linda and families, I am so truely sorry for your loss. I loved Gene and can’t imagine Christmas without him. Your dad had such a wit about him that could slam you in one second and the next his love would just be infectious. I will miss that smile and laugh. I love you all. Patty
November 11, 2009 at 2:12 pm
Teresa Emery
Linda, Greg, Pilar and family,
I was so privileged to have known such a great person as he was! He had such a way about him that I so looked up to! I always felt welcomed around him and enjoyed sharing so many conversations both deep and light hearted!
He always made me smile and laugh and mostly think outside the box!
I will miss his heart felt words of wisdom and just his pressence! I sure will miss him.
His legacy will live on!!
Much love,
Teresa Emery
November 11, 2009 at 2:28 pm
Bob Stockham & Rose Winquist Stockham
To all of Gene’s precious family – We were completely heartbroken at Gene’s passing. He was so full of life! It doesn’t seem possible that he is gone.
Gene was always a giver! He was a huge part of our life, work and community of PI’s. He was always available to jump in, at a moments notice and give it his all.
We became great friends over the years. We will always treasure the wonderful memories of camping, kite flying, Montana surveillance and his amazing life stories. He was an artist in every way. He could make you gut laugh, like no other!
Gene had a vast array of friends, some of which, we would have never met, but not for Gene. He had the uncanny ability to bring together a group of people that were all so different. He made each one of us feel so special and so unique. That was Gene.
He was one of a kind – he never met a stranger. We will never forget his kind heart, his compassion and great love for life and family.
His passing has left a hole in our hearts. We will never forget him. Much love and sympathy, Bob & Rose
November 11, 2009 at 2:42 pm
B.K. Uptagrafft
I was a supervisory agent at the Seattle ATF Office and Gene, one day, made me feel so good when he said, “Uppy, I have learned so much from you, thank you! He seemed always trying to do good for others. He was a great guy and I considered him a good friend and a good agent!
November 11, 2009 at 2:56 pm
Debra Dillard
Thoughts and prayers to Linda and family. I am so glad I got to see Gene at the conference. Even though he was ill he still had a smile and joke handy. He could make anyone feel comfortable and liked to bring folks together. He will be missed. Debra
November 11, 2009 at 3:05 pm
jscrivner
Linda, Gene was one of my favorites and gave me a lot of advice when I started in the PI business about 10 years ago (and ever since). We worked at Safeco together a long time ago in Kent and he did not like his supervisor. So he told me that he was going to tell the guy to stuff it, and then go do something fun like join the ATF. He seemed like he had a lot of fun after that. I’ll miss your visits to Spokane to do those enjoyable seminar presentations. Our people here would always ask…..when are Gene and Linda coming back? We will miss him very much. John & Helen
November 11, 2009 at 5:22 pm
Jane Penningto
Linda and Robertson family,
I cannot express how special Gene was to so many of us. He was always so upbeat and never let you get away without telling a joke or two. His colorful language and the way he expressed his opinion from the political to the mundane was well known and part of what made Gene unique to everyone he met.
As a member of the class of ’57, Gene did a fantastic job of emceeing our 50th class reunion. With his candor and his wit, he drew a lot of laughter from the crowd. I think I speak on behalf of the entire class of 57 when I say he will be truly missed by all. He was such an important part of our class and attended our monthly class lunches.
Gene and Linda helped me in a personal matter with their expertise in investigative work and would take no money because of our friendship. He also gave me some good advice (laced with wit).
Gene’s ongoing fight for his mother to stay in the nursing home where she had been for so many years is a testimonial to his character. Gene also said so many wonderful things about Linda and you always knew there was true love between them.
Gene, we will miss your laughter and your colorful personality.
Jane
November 11, 2009 at 6:53 pm
Brian Pratt
Gene was a great investigator and a good friend.
I remember many good times swapping stories and ideas with him at EPIC and CALI conferences.
His vast expertise was a great help to me in both surveillance and photography.
I’m really going to miss those talks.
- Brian Pratt
PI-19075
November 11, 2009 at 7:36 pm
Chris & Connie Nelson
Linda and Robertson Family,
I recall first meeting Gene when he came to the Anchorage Post of Duty to help us on an investigation and then I got to see much more when I returned to the Seattle Division in 1989. I really enjoyed Gene’s humor and willingness to always help out! I know he was a devoted family man and most recently had read about his fight to help his mother in her battle with the assisted care home.
You have great memories of a very special person who will be deeply missed by so many of us whose lives he touched.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this very difficult time but I know that Gene is watching and telling us all to “get over it” and continue to value and enjoy our lives.
November 12, 2009 at 9:35 am
Wendy Coile
Linda, I realize I haven’t seen you or Gene in a very long time but my heart is saddened by your loss. Gene was one in a million! Oh, so funny and I cherish memories of some great times with you both. Pink wine and camping and partying downtown. He was truely someone special.
November 12, 2009 at 1:21 pm
Jessie Johnson
We’ll be praying for Greg and the Robertson family, we love you all very much
November 13, 2009 at 10:45 am
Bob Winchell
Linda, Greg & Pillar;
I’m saddened at Gene’s passing. My Sincere sympathies to you all.
Gene was a great friend, a funny funny guy, so unique! When we worked together at ATF, he was not only fun to be around, but his invetigative capabilities were outstanding. I fondly remember the canoe trips on Lake Washington with the kids, partying with bj & I in Woodinville, our overnight hike to a wilderness lake (Gene’s 1st & last overnight hike – he was hilarious on that trip & even named the lake – which won’t be repeated here), the crazy sail boat trip to Victoria & PA, and many more. I remember vividly the day Gene drove up our driveway with the lop eared bunny for daughter Wendy – what a neat guy! He told it like he thought it!
November 13, 2009 at 1:49 pm
Leigh Goodier
My Aunt Linda, My cousins Greg & Pilar,
Your husband, father and my Uncle will be missed more than words can express. He has always been there supporting, loving, joking and being not only an uncle but a true friend.
His words of advice about life, family, situations or just telling it like its was will be missed by us all. Funny even when it was something you may not have wanted to hear, he’d tell it to you anyhow. He was loved, respected and has done so much for our family.
I know he is watching over all of us with Grandpa and Grandma at his side. They all will forever be in our memories and hearts.
I’m here for you and love you all!
Leigh & kids
November 13, 2009 at 9:25 pm
Howard Sanders
First, I would like to express my deepest condolences to the entire Robertson family.
I first met Gene after joining ATF in the early 1980s in Los Angeles. As a new agent, Gene took the time to teach me many things that I continue to use to this day. He was truly a pleasure to work with and more importantly just to talk to and spend time with. I truly enjoyed all the times I was fortunate enough to work with Gene. He was an excellent agent and more importantly an outstanding friend. I remember his laugh and his good nature. I truly believe that he is in a better place. He is probably looking down from above feeling sad for us because he realizes how fortunate he is and how, in comparison, much better things are where he is. As long as we keep him in our thoughts, he will be with us forever.
God Bless,
Howard Sanders
Los Angeles, CA
November 14, 2009 at 7:56 am
Rita & Bill Chamberland
Linda and family,
I’m Gene’s cousin. Bruce, (his father) was my mother Barb’s much loved older brother. We are so sorry to hear of Gene’s death. Way too soon. I had counted on seeing you two and getting to know both of you in person! Gene and I had corresponded a bit on email in the past and talked of getting together when you might next visit Florida. Our thoughts are with you and we know that your celebration of his life will be wonderful. Love, Rita & Bill
November 15, 2009 at 11:59 am
David Medley
People come and go in our lives…that is just the way it is. But some people seem to linger around and surface again and again. That is the way it is with Gene and me. After 40+ years, Gene and I will get together again. I just know it!
Gene sat at my kitchen table not many weeks ago after one of those long absences. He was older and maybe a little more conservative than in 1968, and I was maybe a little more liberal than in 1968 but we had such a great time. We told stories and lied to each other and we laughed – a lot.
We talked on the Saturday of his anniversary with Linda. He told me for at least the 100th time how lucky he was to have found her. He told me the same thing 35 years ago. That is one story Gene never altered.
November 15, 2009 at 12:20 pm
Jim & Judie Tyrrell
Linda, Pilar, & Greg,
Gene was a stand-up guy. He was always available to help when anyone needed anything. His unique ability to irritate and terrorize liberals sometimes concealed his caring nature. His commitment to his wife, children, friends, and some of the people that he took pleasure in irritating was readily apparent to anyone who spent more than 5 minutes talking to him. He was truly one of the most memorable people anyone could ever meet. It was a privilege to consider him a friend. He will be missed.
November 15, 2009 at 2:50 pm
Ken Young
Linda, Pilar and Greg,
Gene was a true friend. Toni and I will be praying that you all find the comfort that the Father alone gives.
November 16, 2009 at 8:10 am
Lynne Teverbaugh Springer
Geno was truly one of the funniest people I’ve ever known. He would walk into our offices at Roger Dunn’s and people would naturally be drawn to him. He was also one of the few people I’ve known who could be happy and grumpy at the same time. I’d ask him how he was and he would grumble with his head down, then turn to me — head still down — and slyly smile. At the after-hours or Christmas parties we had, Gene would tell story after story and have all of us in stitches, tears rolling down our cheeks. Stories about Korea or ATF raids or surveillances gone wrong or snakes in bushes. He loved an audience. He had a way with words and could tell a story like no other. Loooong stories, but usually so long just because people had to stop laughing before he could continue. Just the phrases he used were hysterical.
Linda – My heart goes out to you, my dear. You and Geno had a unique relationship. You were the light of his life, no doubt, and now you have an angel watching you and protecting you from Above, just like you had an angel watching and protecting you on earth all these years.
Gene, Gene the Dancin’ Machine, you will be missed.
November 16, 2009 at 4:47 pm
Karen Zimmer
It was a privilege to know and work with Gene. Outstanding in his field, honest to the core, devoted to his family, and wonderful sense of humor. He will be greatly missed.
November 16, 2009 at 9:31 pm
John Calkins
Dear Linda and Gene’s family, I can’t say how sorry I am for your loss and how I will forever remember what a great, great person Gene was. You will be in my prayers.
Gene and I met in 1994 through Bob and Rose. The relationship that I enjoyed with Gene through the next several years are so memorable and great. We traveled together, sat on our asses together in the vans, sat on bar stools together and wathced TV together while we were on the road. What a HOOT. I can’t even begin to tell the stories. He was so patient and helpful in sharing his technology and his knowledge. Gene always had time for his friends. While Gene and I were working in Spokane, without Linda, we had to share a room. Gene was bitching because “I don’t share rooms, only with Linda.” We had no options. When bed time rolled around, he took his pants off. I started laughing because of his underwear. I aksed him if Linda let him wear a pair of her panites. He went nuts. “Goddamnit John, this is exactly why I’ll never share a room again. Shut the hell up and go to sleep”. He was such a wonderful guy. What a shame that he cashed out. I will miss him forever, but everytime I miss him, I’ll laugh. Linda, I’ll always be here for you, 253-261-9594. I would be honored if you need anything to call me. Gene was one of a kind!
November 17, 2009 at 2:59 pm
Roxallanne Medley
“Roxallanne-just relax. The whole goddamn island is waiting for you. I’ve seen it all. It’s not much.” Hee, hee! Some welcome to the island of pineapples, white sandy beaches, and warm, blue water! I’ll never forget the day Gene picked us ap at the airport in Oahu. It was my first (and so far only) trip to Hawaii. We’d left rainy Seattle behind and had two weeks of vacation ahead of us. Gene and Linda were living in Honolulu and they offered us the luxury of spending a week with them on Oahu before flying to Mauii. I was so excited. After hugging Gene, we hopped in the car and I soon realized that my image of Hawaii was very different from Gene’s. He admitted he’d worked in the trenches so long that all he saw was crime, drugs and the “bad guys.” I drove him nuts. He asked what we wanted to see and I said, “Everything.” My husband describes my travel attitude as “Falling in the moat.” I love it all. My first ever sighting of gechkos was at Gene and LInda’s house. It was crawling up the screen door in our room.
I never had to guess about what Gene was thinking. We both knew we weren’t politically alike and had lots of differences. We both liked our red wine. And Gene never failed to tell me how lucky he was to have Linda. The only regret I have right now is that I can’t question him about a comment he made several times- the last only a few days before he died. He made a point of telling David (so I could hear ofcourse) that he had something David never would be able to say he had: in their entire married life, “Linda has never yelled at me.” Wow ! I really wanted to know more about that. I’ll have to ask him when we meet again on a trip that eventually I’ll make and hopefully, he’ll be a better tour guide then than he was years ago in Hawaii. But darn, I will miss him until then.
November 18, 2009 at 7:16 am
Greg Robertson
We wanted to personally thank all of you for your kind words and comments. I hope to see and meet many of you at his Memorial this Saturday.
Greg, Pliar and Linda.
November 20, 2009 at 4:20 pm
Al Farr
Gene’s passing was mentioned by a WALI member in an e-mail to me, and I will remember being stunned by getting that message. We worked a case together just a few months ago. As usual, I was comfortable knowing that Gene and Linda were working the other end of the surveillance. Gene was the real McCoy … a standup, no BS kind of guy. You always knew where you were at with him. He was truly unique, and I feel beyond privileged to have known him through the years. So long guy, and be good to yourself.
November 20, 2009 at 5:02 pm
Steve Houk
Although I had been a private investigator in WA for many years, I had not had the opportinity to meet Gene until i happened to attend my first EPIC meeting in 2003.
Gene and I had known one another by reputaion only prior to this. At that first meeting Gene made me feel like we’d known each other for years. Although I did not know Gene well, I will always remember his as a warm and friendly man who went out of his way to make me feel welcome. Each time our paths had crossed over the years Gene always impressed me with his knowledge and willingness to share his experiences and help out a colleague.
Thank you Gene, I was glad to know you and glad for your intoduction to and encouragement for me to follow forensic photography.
November 20, 2009 at 11:12 pm
Jon & Rebecca Rakes
When I first meet Gene I knew he was all business, the family business. After he ran my ID he welcomed me with a handshake and a little joke about how you can’t be too careful these days.
I was intrigued and fascinated by all of his life and work experiences – well at least the ones you could coax out of him. It was always a pleasure and just plain fun to talk to Gene.
He was a great man, caring father, & loving husband. We will all miss him.
-Jon & Rebecca Rakes
November 21, 2009 at 9:12 am
Greg Robertson
Further details about Gene Robertson’s Memorial Service have been posted.
http://generobertson.com/2009/11/21/gene-robertson-memorial-event-details/