Raul Eugene Gerhart's Obituary
Raul Eugene Gerhart, lovingly known as “Skip”, passed away at his home in Tucson,
Arizona on April 14, 2026. Skip was born in Torrance, California, on May 17, 1938 and
lived a life defined by service, family, and quiet strength.
In 1939 he moved to the rural community of Woodcrest in Riverside, California with his parents, Ira and Lu, and his two older sisters, Maggie and Lila, He grew up helping around the family farm and citrus groves. Those early years helped shape the resilience and work ethic that would carry him throughout his life.
He was the first in his family to attend college. Graduating from UCLA in 1961 and soon after answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Navy. From 1961 to 1964, he served aboard aircraft carriers, gaining experience that strengthened his character and sparked his sense of adventure.
Following his military service, Skip began a career in Federal law enforcement starting out as a U.S. Border Patrol agent in Yuma Arizona. It was during this time that a colleague—who would later become his brother-in-law. introduced him to the love of his life, Romelia Macias. They married in 1966 and settled in Chula Vista, California, where Skip transitioned into becoming a U.S. Customs agent. During these years, they welcomed three children: Stephen, Marguerite, and Daniel.
In 1972, Skip was promoted to work overseas during the formative years of the DEA
and moved the family to Bogotá, Colombia. This marked the beginning of a series of
international assignments throughout central and south America. He was promoted to Customs Attaché, where he relocated to work in Mexico City from 1975 to 1979. The challenges and adventures of living abroad strengthened family bonds and instilled an appreciation of foreign cultures in his children.
In 1979, the family returned to the United States and settled in Tucson, Arizona. Skip
continued navigating the complex world of US Customs and Internal Affairs, trading in his briefcase for retirement in 1988. Never one to remain idle, he went on to work as a private investigator, conducting background checks for the federal government.
In his retirement years, Skip found great joy in the outdoors. He loved camping, hunting, and backyard family BBQs which reflected his appreciation for nature and the simple pleasures of life.
Skip was a constant provider, and his home was always a sanctuary for his family. He
was known for his down to earth nature, practicality, and steady presence—and, at
times, a stubborn streak that reflected his strong will and determination. His strength was quiet but unwavering, and his love for his family was evident in everything he did.
Skip will be remembered for his dedication to his country, his deep love for his family, and the dependable, grounding presence he brought to those around him. He is lovingly remembered by his children: Stephen, Marguerite (her husband Mark), Daniel (his wife Kimberly) and his grandchildren: Sofia, Daniela, Isabella, Julia and Victoria along with all who knew and cherished him.
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