Otto Hagedorn

Otto Lee "Sonny" Hagedorn January 1, 1938 – July 9, 2025 Otto Lee "Sonny" Hagedorn passed away peacefully on July 9, 2025, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, surrounded by those he loved. A devoted family man, community leader, and proud Nebraska farm boy, Otto lived a full and generous life rooted in service, faith, and unwavering dedication to others. Funeral services will take place at Heritage Funeral Home on Monday, July 14, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. with lunch to follow before burial. Family will be present for visitation at Heritage Funeral Home from 1:00- 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 13, 2025. Born on January 1, 1938, in Bennington, Nebraska, to Otto J. and Rose A. (Lambrecht) Hagedorn, Otto's life of purpose began on the family farm. At age four, his family moved to Irvington, NE, where he grew up raising livestock and participating actively in 4-H and the local livestock club. He graduated from Irvington High School in 1955 and, at just 16, proudly soloed and earned his pilot's license in 1954-a testament to his determination and adventurous spirit. Otto married Donna (Edwards) in 1960, and together they had two children. In 1968, he married the love of his life, Linda, and they built a beautiful life and family together. Linda preceded him in death in January 2024, and their bond remains an enduring example of lasting love and devotion. A true steward of the land, Otto farmed for many years and raised a variety of animals, including sheep, buffalo, horses, and turkeys. He especially took pride in his expert sheep shearing skills. He also worked as a longtime salesman for McCurdy corn seed and Archer Oil. In every role, he was known for his integrity, hard work, and warm handshake. Otto had a deep faith and was a founding part of the beloved "Journey to Bethlehem" live nativity reenactment hosted on the family farm through Prairie Hills Covenant Church. He was also a passionate Nebraska Husker fan, never missing a chance to cheer on his team in red. Service to his community was a lifelong calling. Otto was a proud Sertoma member for 49 years, earning numerous honors including the 1981 Tribune Award, 1988 Lifetime Membership, and the 2009 President's Growth Award. He served as a Lincoln County Commissioner for three terms and contributed over four decades of leadership to the Lincoln County Rural Water System, receiving the prestigious Carroll Anderson Award. Otto also gave his time to Lincoln County Crime Stoppers and countless other community efforts. In 2019, Otto and Linda were honored as "Ma and Pa" of Tea Pot Days in Tea, SD, a reflection of their cherished presence in the community. Above all else, Otto loved his family. He is survived by his children: Monty (Amy), Mindy (Dave), Karen (Jim), Kody, Debra (Dan), Valarie (John), and Sara (Brian); sister Pat (Jerry) Samla; 17 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and 10 great-great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his beloved furry companion, Mitch. He was preceded in death by his wife Linda, his parents, and his sister Rosemarie. Otto's legacy is one of faith, family, generosity, and service. His life was marked by deep roots and wide-reaching impact. His family extends heartfelt thanks to the many friends, neighbors, and community members who shared in his journey and supported him with love throughout the years. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. In lieu of flowers please direct memorials to Sioux Falls Noontime Sertoma. https://www.noonsertoma.com/ To send a flower arrangement in memory of Otto Hagedorn, please click here to visit our sympathy store.