Obituary of James I. Hagen

James Irvin Hagen (1948–2023) James Irvin Hagen, age 75, of West Bloomfield NY, died on November 21, 2023 after a long battle with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. "Jungle" Jim was born on March 3, 1948 in Rochester NY to Hollis and Charles Hagen. He grew up in Chili before studying education at Geneseo and teaching in the Rochester City School district for 34 years. He was proud to be part of the Clara Barton Initiative at #2 School. Jim also worked part time at Seager Marine in Canandaigua. Jim was preceded in death by his parents and brother Jeffrey, and is survived by his wife Phyllis, daughters Margaret McCann, Colleen Hagen, Karra Bass, and son Vance (Anita) Hagen. Jim was the proud grandfather to Megan, Maxwell, Katherine, Ian, Devin, Alina, and Ava. Also surviving Jim are his sister Laurie (Robert) Putney, brother Paul (Melissa) Hagen; sisters and brothers-in-law Gene Crane, Annette (Bill) Reagan, Marilyn (John) Nihill, and Steve (Karen) Crane. Though Jim enjoyed many activities and hobbies throughout his life, Jim's favorite role was that as a parent and grandparent. Jim and Phyllis treasured their time with their grandkids and loved being their Papa and Manya, never failing in their efforts to gather all seven grandchildren for cousins' sleepovers in their home. Jim took great pride in teaching his grandchildren how to fish and fix or 'improve' anything and everything. Jim was passionate about serving his community and others. He taught English through Literacy Volunteers of Ontario-Yates County. Jim was a Docent at the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton and a greeter with the Tibbett's Point Lighthouse Historical Society in Cape Vincent. Jim also served for 16 years as a town councilman for West Bloomfield. Jim was an avid fisherman and charter captain. He loved being on a boat with a pole in his hands with the waters of the St. Lawrence River being his favorite. Jim loved snowmobiling which included a brief stint as a snocross racer with two of his children. Snowmobile adventures with family and friends took him throughout New York State and Quebec. Jim enjoyed a great game of golf and bicycling, and was a dedicated Bills fan no matter how many times they broke his heart. A private celebration for family and friends will be held in the near future. Serenity House in Victor, NY provided a home to Jim in his final days where he found happiness, kindness, and peace. Donations to Serenity House, 1278 Brace Rd, Victor, NY 14564 would be greatly appreciated.