Longtime New Rockford Resident Thomas Hagen Dies at 78

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Thomas Hagen, a lifelong resident of New Rockford, North Dakota, passed away at home surrounded by family on January 13, 2026 at the age of 78. Hagen was the first-born son of Harold "Red" and Gladys Hagen, and after serving in the Army, he returned to North Dakota and worked in construction and the grocery business, eventually owning a store with his brother. Hagen is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Christine, their three children, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Hagen's passing marks the end of an era for New Rockford, as he was a fixture in the community for decades, both through his military service and his family's grocery business. His life story reflects the changes the town has undergone over the past half-century, from the post-war era to the present day.

The details

After graduating from New Rockford High School, Hagen enlisted in the Army and was stationed in Germany for two years. Upon returning to North Dakota, he attended Lake Region Junior College and then worked for local construction and grocery companies before eventually co-owning a grocery store with his brother Bruce. Hagen married Christine Bush in 1973, and together they had three children - Jackson, Stewart, and Miranda - who went on to have six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren that Hagen adored.

• Thomas Hagen was born on October 24, 1947 in New Rockford, North Dakota.
• Hagen enlisted in the Army after high school and was stationed in Germany for two years.
• Hagen married Christine Bush on March 2, 1973.
• Hagen became a grandfather for the first time in 1994.
• Hagen became a great-grandfather for the first time in 2016.