Eugene Y.C. Hew

Eugene Yim Choon Hew, affectionately known as “Papa Gene” passed away peacefully at his daughter’s home in Woodstock, Georgia on Monday, March 16, 2020 at the age of 97. A funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, March 21st at 10:00 A.M. at the Garden of Memories Funeral Home and Cemetery, 4900 Airline Drive in Metairie, LA.
He was married to Beverly Berwick from 1950 to her death in 1989 and lived happily in his home for 70 years. His wife, Bev and son, Jimmy welcomed Papa Gene into heaven with outstretched arms. Survivors include: Charlice Byrd (Michael), Charlotte Leilani Bernard (Steve), Alice Hoppmeyer (Todd) and 3 grandchildren – Todd, Jr., Brooke and Keely Hoppmeyer.
Papa Gene was a giving man who loved his family and friends. He was also loved dearly by anyone who knew him, and had a smile that lit up the room!
He was born in Paia, Maui, Hawaii on February 3, 1923, second to youngest of nine children to Hew Fat and Tai See. Gene left Maui to enlist in the military on March 12, 1945 at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii and served for two years. He recently was presented a Congressional Certificate of Appreciation by Barry Loudermilk, the Eleventh District of Georgia of the House of Representatives, Washington, D.C. for distinguished service in the United States Army during WWII.
Papa Gene moved to New Orleans sometime after 1948, to live with his brother that was attending Tulane Medical School. He enrolled at New Orleans Trade School to learn trade skills and held various jobs through the years. He retired in 1989 after his wife’s death, and loved traveling, sports, and cooking. He is no longer with us but he will continue to live forever in our hearts and minds. May his gentle soul sleep well. He will be sorely missed.

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