Eugene Guy Hertler

Eugene Guy Hertler of Rancho Palos Verdes, passed away unexpectedly at home on November 10, 2013, after 87 well lived years. He was the beloved husband of Barbara for 58 years, devoted father to Curtis (Karen) and Spencer (Margaux), loving grandfather of Lauren, Gregory, Thurston, and Chelsea, dearest brother of Shirley Willits, and cherished uncle. Eugene was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan to the late Olive and August Hertler on January 16, 1926. He attended the University of Michigan where he earned both his B.S. and M.S. in Aeronautical Engineering. A WWII Army veteran, he served his country before turning a lifelong fascination of airplanes and space flight into a successful career. Specializing in fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and propulsion his career path included employment at Convair, The University of Maryland as an Aerodynamics Instructor, Chrysler Corp. as Mgr. Reentry Physics Section, and 29 years at Aerospace Corporation. There, he culminated his career as Principal Director of the Aero-Thermal and Propulsion Subdivision where his work included development and operation of spacecraft launch vehicles, as well as trouble shooting projects such as The Global Positioning System (GPS), and Defense meteorology satellites. An involved father, he spent many hours accompanying his sons on Scout camping trips and outings. After retirement, he and wife Barbara enjoyed many years of travel, playing bridge, and gardening. He was a member of St. Peter's By the Sea Presbyterian Church. Willing to help others, quick with a laugh, having the desire to make the world a better place, he will always be an outstanding role model for his children and grandchildren. Private family service and burial to be held. Memorial contributions may be made to the USO, or American Heart Association.

Funeral Home:
Green Hills Mortuary and Memorial Chapel
27501 S.Western Ave.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
US 90275