Obituary published on Legacy.com by Vander Plaat Funeral Home - Wyckoff on May 29, 2025.
Thomas A. "Tom" Hagen Jr., 80, of Dumont, NJ, passed away on May 23, 2025, after bravely enduring a broken heart following the loss of his beloved wife, Judith. Born on January 15, 1945, in Paterson, New Jersey, Tom will always be remembered by his family and friends for his easy-going nature, his welcoming smile, and his generous, tender spirit.
Tom proudly served his country as a dedicated member of the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. His service instilled in him a lifelong passion and respect for the military that he carried throughout his life. Following his military service, Tom dedicated himself professionally to North Jersey Typewriter Service, before moving on to a career at Novartis Pharmaceuticals.
In his personal life, Tom's passions included cheering passionately for his beloved New York Giants, listening to Yacht Rock, proudly driving and maintaining his cherished 1960 MG, and cheering on sports of every kind. No matter the sport, Tom appreciated nothing more than sharing a game with friends and family with a cold beer.
A loving father and grandfather, Tom treasured every moment he spent with his daughters Alison Ryan and Carolyn Hagen and his grandchild, Abigail, whom he adored immensely. His genuine friendliness and laid-back attitude gained him friendships wherever he went, and his warm laughter will long echo in the memories of those fortunate enough to have known him.
His memory lives on through his daughters, Alison Ryan and Carolyn Hagen, who remain forever grateful for the love and devotion they received from their beloved father. He was preceded in death by his cherished wife of 55 years Judith on 4/2/2025 who was undoubtedly waiting to welcome him home.
Tom is survived by his sister Joan Studer as well as a large extended family, including nieces, nephews and cousins. His siblings who departed this life earlier were his sister Eileen Hagan and brother Douglas Hagen, who was undoubtedly his best friend.
Tom Hagen's generous heart, kind spirit, and ever-present smile will be deeply missed by his family and the countless friends whose lives he has brightened and enriched.
A Prayer Service and Military Honors will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025 at 2:00 PM followed by gathering of family and friends from 2:00 – 4:00 PM at Vander Plaat Funeral Home, 257 Godwin Avenue,
Wyckoff, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a charitable donation to: The Vietnam Veterans of America, 8719 Colesville Road, Suite 100, Silver Spring, MD 20910
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