“Edwin Eugene Herrick, Jr “Gene” “Hurricane” Herrick, 81, of Portland, passed away peacefully in the early morning of Saturday July 3, 2021 at Mercy Hospital. Gene was born in Saco on March 8, 1940, the son of Edwin and Rita (Boutin) Herrick. He was educated in Saco schools and was employed as a window washer after a prolific boxing career.
Gene debuted as a boxer in 1966 in Lewiston, headlining fights at the Portland Expo and across New England. He earned the nickname “Hurricane” Herrick for his strong and quick right hand, known more for finding an opening than his footwork. Gene was named the Most Active Fighter in the World in 1967 and 1968, owing to fighting as much as twice a week. He earned the New England Middleweight Boxing Championship title from 1967 to 1968. His overall record, often shared by Gene with pride, “89 fights, 44 wins and 24 knockouts”, tied with Rocky Marciano for 5 first round knockouts in a row. Those who knew him admired how active he was throughout his life.
