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Grand Rapids, Michigan

Theodore Hagen Obituary

Theodore "Ted" Anthony Hagen, 83, passed away on February 4, 2026. Born in Lansing, MI, on February 22, 1942, to Ted and Matilda Hagen, Ted leaves behind a legacy defined by his dedication to education, his deep Catholic faith, and his love for music and family.
Ted was a devoted educator, serving as a high school math teacher for nearly 40 years, with the majority of his career spent at Ionia High School. His industrious nature extended well beyond the classroom; he hunted from self-made deer blinds at Six Lakes, was a skilled builder who loved remodeling homes, and a handyman who enjoyed fixing electronics.
Music was a cornerstone of the Hagen family. Ted played the drums in a band with his younger brother, Tom, and spent many years DJing special events. To many, he was affectionately known as "the man behind the camera," constantly capturing video footage of family gatherings and countless basketball games to preserve those memories for others. He was a Michigan State University alum and an avid Spartan fan.
Ted was passionate about his Catholic faith. He taught religious education classes, was an active participant in Bible studies, and was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus.
Ted is survived by his children, Mark (Tara) Hagen, Ted John Hagen, and Katie (Brent) Erickson; and his grandchildren, Mark (Ren) Hagen, Ashton Hagen, Victoria Hagen, Owen Erickson, and Max Erickson. He is also survived by his siblings, Tom (Cherie) Hagen and Dee Forbes, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ted and Matilda Hagen, and his sister, Mary Keyes.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 11 from 4:00-7:00 (Rosary from 6:30-7:00) at Metcalf and Jonkhoff Funeral Services: 4291 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
A funeral will be held on Thursday, February 12 at 11:00 AM at Saint Mary Magdalen Catholic Church: 1253 52nd St SE, Kentwood, MI 49508. A luncheon will be held immediately following the funeral service.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Kids Food Basket. http://www.kidsfoodbasket.org/

To plant trees in memory, please visit theĀ Sympathy Store.

Published by Grand Rapids Press on Feb. 5, 2026.

Memories and Condolences
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5 Entries

Dorothy Mazur

February 11, 2026

Katie, I just learned of your father“s death. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. I am traveling tomorrow, so will miss his funeral mass.
Dorothy M.

Linda Anderson

February 10, 2026

I wouldn't have passed my applied math class senior year if it wasn't for Mr. Hagen

Mary Eteo

February 8, 2026

Tom and Cherie,
I am very sorry for your loss. Sending hugs and prayers.

Gloria Dryer

February 7, 2026

Another long-time friend, teacher/colleague is gone. Mike and I came to Ionia High School the same year as Ted, 1965 ( possibly 1964 for him). We definitely retired in the same year...2000. We shared decades of school and community memories that reflect coming-of-age experiences of both students and educators. Ted had a great sense of humor and showed compassion for the many people he interacted with daily. He loved his family, music, friends, students, community, and MSU! Many will remember him and smile. What better legacy is there? R.I.P. Ted Hagen.
Go Spartans,
Gloria Dryer

Jill Renucci

February 7, 2026

I have fond memories of Ted playing the piano at the Elks club when Tootsie Van Kelly was there. The group played a lot of big band music and I would sing the songs. Ted was always amazed that I knew all the words to the old songs at such a young age. I never had him as a teacher in school but I always heard good things about him. May the Lord bless his family .

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Memorial Events
for Theodore Hagen

Feb

11

Visitation

4:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m.

Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Service

4291 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546

Feb

11

Rosary

6:30 p.m.

Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Service

4291 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546

Feb

12

Mass of Christian Burial

11:00 a.m.

St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church

1253 52nd Street SE, Kentwood, MI 49508

Funeral services provided by:

Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Service

4291 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546

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