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Robert O'Hagan Obituary
He loved the simple things: checking out the waves, reading history books, peanut butter sandwiches, old sneakers. (Why buy new when you've got perfectly good ones from 2005?) He was thrilled to watch his grandchildren do their thing, whether it was a superhero adventure for Riley or a wrestling match for Cormac. He loved family most of all.
Retired Judge Robert O'Hagan, 80, died Oct. 18 of complications from surgery.
The fourth of Kathryn (Evans) and Wm. Joseph O'Hagan's five children, he grew up on a West Long Branch block boisterous with families. Stories of neighborhood adventures—at least one still a mystery to the cops—were legend. He met Christine Vogel as a kid at Takanassee Beach Club; they started dating in college and were inseparable ever since.
Graduating from Rutgers Law, he joined his father's and brother's Allenhurst practice in 1966. Quite possibly, he would say, Stout & O'Hagan boasted the borough's only elevator. Among other clients, he represented municipalities and government boards, including those in Colts Neck, Allenhurst, and Neptune. He often said his career would not have been possible without Christine.
In 1987, he was appointed to the Superior Court and wrote numerous published decisions. On the bench, he acceded to judicial robes but declined socks. After a purported retirement in 2005, he continued doing arbitrations and mediations to the last. None would claim he dodged hard work. His optimism was boundless.
He is survived by Christine; children Maureen, Bob, and Steve; their spouses Claire McClanahan and Tracy Morgan O'Hagan; grandchildren Cormac and Riley; along with nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Years ago, he told the story of the strongman: lift a calf every day, and eventually you'll be strong enough to lift a whole cow. He never did get that cow, but he always kept lifting.
Due to COVID, a private memorial will be held later. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Fulfill 3300 Hwy. 66, Neptune, 07753. Condolences to the family may be emailed to www.fiorefuneralhomes.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert O'Hagan
Sponsored by Fiore-Buckley Funeral Home - Oakhurst.
Janice M. Robinson
October 15, 2023
Fond memories of a great person that will live in our
Hearts.
Janice M. Robinson
October 16, 2022
I will always fond memories of a wonderful person and will always be missed.
Janice M. Robinson
Janice M Robinson
October 26, 2020
Judge Robert W. O'Hagan was one the greatest and compassionate person I ever known. It was a pleasure working for him as a Court attendant.
Hon. Susan D. Wigenton, USDJ
October 26, 2020
A true legal giant! It was my honor to appear before him. Wise, respectful and fair.....always!!
Christoph Sahar
October 26, 2020
He was a most wonderful friend to our family, a source of comfort and guidance. I will always appreciate the many times he acted as a sound advisor on serious matters requiring calm rationality and a keen mind. Even more, we remember his kindness, his warmth, and not least, his sense of humor. We shall always remember him with warmth and appreciation in our hearts.
Robert K. Marchese, Esq.
October 22, 2020
A true gentlemen and great judge. As a mediator he helped to resolve a difficult case that was considered by the judge managing it a question of first impression. Even up to a couple of months ago when he took my call on potential new matter he recalled the case in detail and assisted
with the purpose of my call. He will be missed.
Jack McDermott
October 22, 2020
I tried my first case against him.
He was the Prosecutor in Colts Neck.
My client was charged with refusing the breath test.
The state trooper admitted my client had never said “No” to taking the test. “So how can you say he refused,” I asked. “Because he picked up the machine and threw it on the ground,” he replied.
Seriously?
Bob’s eye were bright with merriment.
We laughed about the case for years afterwards.
He was kind to young lawyers.
HeThet Beebe
October 22, 2020
So very sorry for your loss, such a great guy, he will be missed
Judge Thomas F. Shebell Jr
October 22, 2020
A true gentleman and honorable judge.
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