WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Robert E. Hagen of Sturgis, Mich., passed away Friday, May 17, 2013, at Borgess Medical Center.
Born Dec. 11, 1934, in Sturgis, Robert was the son of the late William and Ilo (Waltz) Hagen.
As a lifelong resident of Sturgis and a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Robert spent his youth involved in 4-H before earning the rank of staff sergeant in the National Guard.
Robert later transferred to the Army in special communications at Fort Knox, Ky.
On Sept. 10, 1953, Robert was joined in holy matrimony to Dona Jean (nee Beers) at Trinity Lutheran Church in Sturgis by Rev. Herbert Heindeneich.
Robert worked for a number of filling stations and Dennis Kane Oil Company before becoming a manager of Jeffer’s Oil Company – a position he held for 15 years.
Robert then worked for Rockford Paper for 20 years before retiring for health reasons.
An avid fisherman and hunter, Robert also enjoyed camping and spending time with his family.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Dona; one son, Denny Hagen of Sturgis; one daughter, Darlene (Brian) Holtz of Colon; five grandchildren, Jeremy Barnett of Denver, N.C.; Traci Barnett (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 North Point, Fla.; one sister, Judy (Keith)Yant of Churubusco, Ind.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Robert also served as a foster parent to several children.
Cremation has taken place. A visitation and service will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church on Saturday, July 20. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. and the service will begin 11 a.m.
Memorials may be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church or Sturgis Home Care.
