John Stephen Hagge, a long-time resident of Anchorage, Alaska, passed away on May 26, 2013, at the age of 66. Born on December 17, 1946, in Hibbing, Minnesota, to Lauren and Doris Hagge, John lived a full and vibrant life marked by adventure, creativity, and a deep love for family and the Alaskan wilderness. While no formal funeral services were held, a family memorial to celebrate the life of John Hagge took place at Pokegama Lake near Grand Rapids, Minnesota, in early fall.
Early Life and Midwestern Roots of John Hagge
John Hagge’s formative years were spent in Hibbing, Minnesota, where he excelled both academically and athletically. A Hibbing High School honors graduate in 1965, he also earned a letter in football, showcasing his early dedication and diverse talents. Furthering his education, John graduated from Hibbing Junior College in 1967 and the University of Minnesota-Duluth in 1974. These Minnesota roots instilled in him a strong work ethic and a love for the outdoors that would characterize his entire life, even after moving far from his home state.
John Hagge’s Alaskan Adventure and Entrepreneurial Spirit
In 1979, a sense of adventure called John Hagge westward. He embarked on a journey along the Alcan Highway with friends Jim and Karen Jordan, and it was this trip that sparked a life-changing decision: to make Alaska his home. Initially settling in Eagle River in 1979 before moving to Anchorage in 1989, John embraced the Alaskan lifestyle wholeheartedly. His brothers eventually followed him to Alaska, testament to his pioneering spirit and the allure of the Last Frontier.
John Hagge’s professional life in Alaska reflected his skills and entrepreneurial drive. Drawing on his experience with sign companies in Minnesota and Alaska, he proudly established his own business, Alaska Neon, in Anchorage. This venture allowed him to combine his artistic talents with his business acumen, contributing to the visual landscape of Anchorage and leaving a lasting mark on the local business community.
Passions and Pastimes: Curling, Fishing, and Artistic Expression
Beyond his professional endeavors, John Hagge was a man of many passions. A life member of the Alaska Curling Club, he was deeply involved in the sport, competing in numerous national tournaments with his dedicated rink. His competitive spirit and camaraderie within the curling community were well-known and respected.
Image alt text: John Hagge proudly holds a large King Salmon, showcasing his passion for fishing in Alaska.
Another defining aspect of John Hagge’s Alaskan life was his love for fishing. He was famously known as the pilot of the “Fish Boat” on the Kenai River, a testament to his expertise and enjoyment of angling in one of Alaska’s premier fishing destinations. He also enjoyed hunting and was an avid golfer, further demonstrating his appreciation for outdoor pursuits and recreational activities. And as a dedicated fan of Minnesota sports, John Hagge never missed a game of his beloved Minnesota Vikings and Twins, often watching multiple games simultaneously on several TVs in his living room.
John Hagge also possessed a significant artistic talent, expressing himself through acrylic paintings of Alaskan scenes and sculpting neon art. This creative side showcased a different dimension of his personality, capturing the beauty of his surroundings and his innovative approach to art.
“Grandpa Fish” and Family Legacy
To his two granddaughters, Madeline and Abigail Reynolds, John Hagge was affectionately known as “Grandpa Fish.” This endearing nickname stemmed from the countless photos of him proudly holding king salmon or standing beside giant halibut, symbols of his Alaskan fishing adventures. A cherished memory for his granddaughters was a trip to Alaska where “Grandpa Fish” himself taught them (and their parents) the art of landing a big catch and digging for clams on the shore. Breakfasts at the cabin were always a special occasion, featuring John’s signature “big pancake” cooked in a cast iron skillet on the Weber grill – a testament to his love for family and creating memorable experiences.
John Hagge is survived by his loving daughter, Elizabeth Reynolds, his granddaughters Madeline and Abigail Reynolds, his stepmother Bonnie Hagge, brothers Jeff, Hal, and Bob, nieces and nephews, and his former wife and friend, Pat Hagge. He was preceded in death by his parents. John Hagge’s memory will be cherished and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
The arrangements were handled by the Cremation Society of Alaska. Online condolences and memories of John Hagge can be shared at www.alaskacremation.com.
