Dorothy Louise Hagen's Obituary
Heaven is under our feet as well as above our heads… Henry David Thoreau
In celebration of an amazing women who knew how to create her own heaven here on earth.
Dorothy Louise Hagen, born number six into a loving, close knit family in North Tacoma. She would say she experienced a childhood of being a bit doted upon. Many would say that set the tone for the life she shared so willingly of pleasing others. After graduating from Stadium High School in 1939 she met the love of her life Arthur Hagen at a Saturday social dance. She married her sweetheart May 26, 1941.
Dorothy worked as a retail clerk at Kress Department Store while Art was overseas in the Navy. She made lifelong friends of a group of lady co-workers. They called themselves the “Kress Club” famous for getting together for crafts and giggles. Dorothy started her life as a loving mother on May 17, 1944 bringing her first born son, Leonard, into this world. Following Len was Alan, Tom and finally Rob. Rumor has it she was hoping, at least twice, for a girl, that would explain the tiny hand knitted pink bonnets found in her Hope Chest. Dorothy loved knitting, crocheting and crafts. She gathered with a few of her close friends, her sister Elsie and sister-in-laws, Agnes and Lois regularly for over 40+ years knitting up a storm. They called themselves the Knit Wits. Sharing Knit Wit stories always brought a smile to her eyes. Family and friends held priority in her life.
Dorothy loved her boys and her husband more than life itself. They enjoyed family camping trips, long Sunday drives, Sunday dinner at Grandma Walesby’s, Annual Hagen Reunions and Walesby’s Family Reunions. Holidays and birthdays were only a few of the reasons to gather in the love of family for Dorothy! She was always open to a beach fire and barbeque in Allyn – most will remember the famous 4th of July boat burning days and Walesby gatherings.
Though her compassion and unconditional love surrounded her own four boys, she was in many ways a mother to more than just four. Throughout the years she always found room in her heart for the others that came along. When her second son married Dian, bringing two grandkids, Jeremy and Maureen, into her life she couldn’t have been happier. Then son number three announced he was going to be a father. The birth of Arthur Thomas, her 3rd grandchild expanded her heart. Rob completed her family circle with his marriage to Laura.
It was hard to be away from her boys but Dorothy really loved her trips wintering in Arizona. Originally her and Art’s trips were made by motorhome. After the loss of her beloved she continued her trips south. Dorothy never lost her draw to the desert. Road trips returned with her sons taking turns sharing special moments with their mom. Dorothy was easily accepted by her Mesa community, she always had that sparkle in her eye and warm smile which made you feel welcome. Many trips included her siblings and their spouses. “Come to Arizona” became another reason for family gatherings. This was a woman who loved her family and lived for time well spent with everyone she loved. She is cherished by her family and all who shared in her warmth and authentic joy of life.
What’s your fondest memory of Dorothy?
What’s a lesson you learned from Dorothy?
Share a story where Dorothy's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Dorothy you’ll never forget.
How did Dorothy make you smile?