John Hagen
January 16, 2021
Alton John Hagen
Des Moines
Alton John Hagen, age 64, passed away Saturday, January 16, 2021.
John was born September 15, 1956 in Des Moines, Iowa to Alton Wells Hagen and Edith Ann (Tomkinson) Hagen. He was a lifelong resident of the Des Moines area. John served as a state firefighter with the Des Moines International Airport Fire Department. He was a “Jack of all Trades” and a master of many. After retiring from the Airport Fire Department he returned to DMACC and completed his degree in Graphic Arts Design and Photography. He then went on to Iowa State University to complete the Master Gardening program earning his certificate as a Master Gardener. He became an avid volunteer in the Polk County Master Gardening Community. These are just a few of many of his accomplishments. If John could have been a full time student, he would have been. To him, education and the power of knowledge were priceless and he enjoyed sharing that knowledge with others.
When John was not volunteering he enjoyed spending his time with his family and friends. He cherished the relationships he developed over the years and never took anything for granted. When he was home he enjoyed the company of his two cats, Fleetwood & Mac.
He is survived by his children, Nathan Glover (Dawn), Hope Hagen, and April Enos (Charlie); sister, Jeanette Keogh (Carlin); six grandchildren, Monica Hagen, Austin and Avery Enos, Kaytlin, Bailey, and Ethan Glover; girlfriend Connie Dornburgh.
John was preceded in death by his wife, Heidi Sue (Henderson) Hagen; his daughter, Faith Ann Hagen; parents, Alton and Edith Hagen; and his sister, Marie (Hagen) Salem.
A Celebration of Life has been scheduled for March 6, 2021 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the Des Moines Botanical Gardens in downtown Des Moines. This will be held as an “open house” style celebration. Per the Governors’ mandate, masks will be required and we will be adhering to social distancing guidelines while enjoying refreshments. Dad enjoyed gardening more than anyone I knew. Please join us to share stories and memories of dad. The celebration is being held at the Botanical Gardens to honor dad’s passion for gardening. While there, please walk the conservatory and enjoy the beautiful gardens while remembering dad.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
909 Robert D. Ray Drive
Des Moines, IA 50309-2897
515.323.6290
https://www.dmbotanicalgarden.com/visit/directions/
Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Mike Williams
02/21/2021
I worked with John at the airport fire department. What a kind soul. There was nothing he wouldnt do if asked regardless of how menial or difficult the task. We need more good men like John in this world. Gone way too soon. He will long be remembered
Mary Henderson
02/05/2021
Hope & April, so Sorry for your loss of your dad (John). I remeber when he first went back to college, he was on cloud nine. Prayers for your whole family.
Sharon Beninato
02/03/2021
I worked in the PCMG greenhouse with John for several years. He was always the first one to volunteer to help with whatever needed to be done. I hope your memories give you peace.🌺🌞🌈
Julie Woodhouse, Hilary Woodhouse
01/30/2021
Sincerest condolances to your family. My daughter Hilary and I knew John through our internship at the greenhouse with PCMG. He was one of the most welcoming, warmest, delightful people I met. And so interesting talking of his many travels. He will be missed by all.
Jerry Eisenhour
01/30/2021
I am so sad to hear of John's passing. I can't imagine a nicer guy. I worked with him at the greenhouse. My condolences to the family.
Nancy Anderson
01/30/2021
My sincere & deepest sympathy to your family! I knew John through the Master Garden greenhouse & I am so saddened to hear of his passing. John was always so kind, cheerful & helpful to everyone. He was a joy to know. I am so very sorry for your loss!