KAPETAN, Eugene V

August 4, 1928 - February 6, 2023

Eugene V. Kapetan, age 94, of Los Angeles, passed away on February 6, 2023 at home surrounded by his loving family. Gene was born in Detroit, MI in 1928. His parents, Maurice and Rose, moved to Los Angeles in 1930 with Gene and his older brother, Herbert.

In his early years in Los Angeles, Gene attended the neighborhood grammar school, Carthay Center School. There as a young boy, he made friendships that endured throughout his lifetime and some were able to be present at Gene’s 90th birthday celebration. Following graduation from Los Angeles High School, Gene enrolled in UCLA as a undergraduate and went on to earn his Law Degree in 1954 from the newly established UCLA School of Law.

Gene practiced law for 30 years. He enjoyed the challenges and complexities of legal issues and championed the needs and successes for his clients. Gene was a gregarious and generous person who earned the respect and homage from many of his colleagues, as well as from the younger lawyers for whom he was a valued mentor.

Following 30 years as a solo general practitioner attorney in Los Angeles, Gene retired and with his wife, Sandra, began planning their numerous adventures that took them around the world several time, making new friendships along the way, friendships that endured throughout the ensuing years. Their wanderlust took them to 132 countries, many with repeat visits.

Gene exuded a buoyant enjoyment of life. He remained a loyal Bruin fan. He was an avid reader and enjoyed the Theater, especially musicals and always appreciated vintage wine, fine cuisine and a Cuban cigar, but most of all, Gene loved his family and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents and older brother. He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Sandra, and 2 daughters, Eugenie Spirito (Louis) and Stephanie de la Torre (Ernest) from a previous marriage to Melissa Kapetan, and his grandson, Armand de la Torre.

In honor of Gene’s final wishes, the arrangements will be private, but at a later date, there will be a “Celebration of Gene’s Life” gathering.