Eugene M. Pecchia, Lt. Col Ret.
Eugene passed away peacefully with his family by his side on September 19th, 2017. He was born on February 17th, 1934 to Angelo and Regina Pecchia, founders of Eatonville’s Roxy Theatre of Eatonville, WA. As a child, Gene enjoyed telling jokes, playing sports, and always dreamed of becoming a fighter pilot. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force to follow his dream and served for over 20 years. He met his future wife, Emma, an Air Force nurse, while they were both stationed in Moses Lake, WA. They were married for 59 years. He continued to serve in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War and flew 140 combat missions. Gene was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross for demonstrating “exemplary courage and outstanding aerial skill” in completing his mission over North Vietnam on September 21st, 1966. Following his time in the Air Force, Gene settled in Spokane and served with the Air National Guard. He was very proud of his huckleberry pies, his golf game, and his numerous projects around the home. He always believed in his family. Gene is survived by his wife Emma; sons Greg (Trudy) and David (Vaishali); daughters Carol and Mary (Robert); 8 grandchildren.
Funeral Mass 1:00 on Wednesday, September 27th, 2017 at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church in Eatonville. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Parkinson’s Disease Foundation
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