Robert E. Hagen of Sturgis passed away Friday, May 17, 2013, at Borgess Medical Center.
He was born Dec. 11, 1934, in Sturgis, to William and Ilo (Waltz) Hagen.
On Sept. 10, 1953, he married DonaJean (Beers) at Trinity Lutheran Church, by the Rev. Herbert Heindeneich. He was a lifelong resident of Sturgis. Bob worked at a number of filling stations, Dennis Kane Oil Company and later became manager of Jeffer’s Oil Company for 15 years. He worked for Rockford Paper for 20 years before taking early retirement due to ill health. He was involved all of his early years in 40H. He earned the rank of staff sergeant in the National Guard and was later transferred to the Army in special communications at Fort Knox, Ky.
He was an avid fisherman and hunter and enjoyed camping and spending time with his family.
He is survived by his wife, Dona, of 59 years; a son, Denny Hagen of Sturgis; a daughter, Darlene (Brian) Holtz of Colon; five grandchildren, Jeremy Barnett of Denver, N.C., and Traci Barnett and fiance Josiah Nelson of Fort Wayne, Ind., Jesse (Leslie) Hagen of Olathe, Kan., and Chas (Shayne) Holtz of Burr Oak; three great-grandchildren, Isabelle Barnett, and Mason and Matthew Hagen; two brothers, William (Clara) Hagen of Kansas City, Mo., and Joseph (Sherry) Buettner of Columbia City, Ind.; a sister, Judy (Keith) Yant of Churubusco, Ind., and a number of nieces and nephews.
Robert and Dona were also foster parents to a number of children through the years.
Robert was a lifetime member of Trinity Lutheran Church.
Cremation has taken place. Memorial services will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church.
Memories, life story and condolences may be left at www. avinkcremation.com.