James D. Hagadorn

1936 - 2020

James D. Hagadorn obituary, 1936-2020, Grand Rapids, MI

BORN

1936

DIED

2020

James Hagadorn Obituary

Hagadorn, James D 2/11/1936 - 11/18/2020 Grand Rapids James D. "Jim" Hagadorn, age 84, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 18th, 2020, at home, surrounded by his loving family. Jim was a devoted husband of 61 years to his college sweetheart, Carol (Pasek), and an involved, caring father to his three adult children: Ken, Denise (Morrissee), and Laurie (Kibler). He was a beloved grandpa to Elise, Macy, Andrew, and Sarah. Jim was well known for his inexhaustible optimism, his welcoming smile, and his great sense of humor. He loved a good joke and often had one at the ready. It was even better if you had a new one for him. Jim had a fun and generous spirit that included everyone. He also gave freely of his time and energy to people in need - whether that be friends, colleagues or great causes – such as Habitat For Humanity and United Way. He had an uncanny knack of finding just the right words to share – at a public event, in giving a toast on a special occasion, or in offering wise words of advice to a friend or family member. Jim had roots and friends throughout the state. He was born in Cadillac as the son of W. Gordon and Lucile Hagadorn, alongside his brother, Gordon Kies. He graduated from Alma high school and served in the U.S. Army in Korea. After returning from the war, he earned a degree in Business at Western Michigan University - where he met Carol, the love of his life. Jim worked as an executive at Consumers Power for 30 years, with stops in Utica, Jackson, Saginaw, Traverse City, and Grand Rapids. His 29 years of retirement provided cherished time split between Greenville, MI (fishing on the good ship "Bass-Kicker"), RV travel with friends in Arizona, and finally, at Beacon Hill in Grand Rapids. Jim loved working with his hands and became a prolific and skilled woodworker during his retirement. Due to COVID considerations, Funeral services will be for immediate family only. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages those interested to donate to the Beacon Hill Foundation or select a charity of their choice https://beaconhillgr.org/foundation/

Published by Grand Rapids Press from Nov. 19 to Nov. 22, 2020.
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Carol, so sorry to see Jim's passing. I first knew him when I worked at Consumers Energy in GR- Always had a good thing to say and a friendly smile. I relocated to the Greenville office and would run into you both down on Baldwin Lake or up at the office. You both are great people, always kind & friendly. You are in my thoughts and prayers

Nancy Wilson

Coworker

November 30, 2020

I enjoyed working with Jim over many years. Jim was a true professional. He was also a good friend with a quick wit and smile. I invited Jim to go fishing not long ago and was amazed how determined he was to not give in to Parkinson's. Jim touched many lives in a very positive way.

Rick Roller

Coworker

November 24, 2020

Carol, I am so very sorry for your loss. Jim was loved by all who knew him. He was equally respected. I worked in the Mangers Area with him. He will be missed.

Beth Maycroft

Coworker

November 23, 2020

Never did I not know Jim when he didn’t have a smile to share, a kind and caring gentleman and such a generous heart. As one of his secretaries from his career at Consumers Power, working for him was always a joy. What a beautiful legacy he leaves for his family. Carol, you are in our thoughts and prayers, and I know your faith and family will get you through this difficult time until you are together again with your Best friend. Much love and hugs.

Marti and Dan Noble

Friend

November 22, 2020

I have many fond memories working for Jim in HR. Always a smile and a kind word. Sincere sympathies to Carol and the rest of the family. ❤

Cindy Bateson

November 22, 2020

Colette McLogan

November 21, 2020

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

Jerry and Colette

Friend

November 21, 2020

I recall many happy times with Jim, a class mate at Alma High. He was always very positive and a smile on his face. Our paths crossed a few years later with our many school reunions. Our sympathy to Carol and their family. May God bless and comfort you ---that bright star in the heavens will be Jim waving at you. Sincerely, Janet and Marty

Janet (Hyde) and Marty Cronan

Classmate

November 21, 2020

With sympathy to Carol. Jim was a very special man and may your faith, friends and family sustain you at this time. Sincerely, Judy Hoult

Judy Hoult

Coworker

November 21, 2020

My thoughts and prayers will be with you during these challenging days. Take care of yourself. Love to you.

Marilyn Jensen

Friend

November 20, 2020

My sincere and most heartfelt sympathies to you Carol and to your family. The last time I saw Jim was when you both came to see my mom before she went home to heaven. If I remember correctly, he brought a loaf of Wonder bread and something else!?! An inside joke as I know how much he loved teasing his friend Dolores. he had such a big personality and was very dear to my dad as well. You all go back so far and have so many wonderful memories together. I know the loss of his presence will be felt deeply. Much love and many prayers sent out to the family. Love to you Carol. ♥♥♥

Karla Hull

Friend

November 20, 2020

To: The Hagadorn Family & Friends,

I am very saddened by our lost, Jim was a very special and caring person, he will be missed. I will hold the fond memories of your friendship and times we had during our years at Consumers Power. May our memories live on and bring you and your family peace.

Cherish Your Memories,
With Deepest Sympathy

Gary & Frank Yeager

Coworker

November 20, 2020

Jim was many things....All good!!
He was a true friend... always there for everyone!
He was a trusted colleague . His word was always enough!
He was dedicated and hard working....Always prepared!
He was a funny guy.... Always ready with a story... Oh how I miss those annual martinis we shared!!
His integrity was unbelievable!
His honesty... I always said to myself, “Don’t ask the question if you don’t want to hear the answer!” Jim was not a yes man ..
Finally...A family man... A tremendous role model for all!
Our sincere sympathy to Carol and family❤
Nancy & Frank

Frank/Nancy Manning

Friend

November 19, 2020

Jim was a great person to work with at Consumers. Always willing to listen and give your question serious thought. His optimism helped all of us through some tough times.
My prayers are with the family as they handle their grief.

Paul Roney

Coworker

November 19, 2020

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