January 29, 1939 – January 30, 2025
David George Hager, 86, passed away peacefully under hospice care on January 30, 2025, in Longview, Texas, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Ann Arbor on January 29, 1939, to George and Rolene Hager, David took great pride in being known as the last baby to be delivered at home by Dr. Carl Fry. A proud student of Ann Arbor High School Class of 1956, he carried a strong work ethic and deep loyalty to family, friends, and community throughout his life.
At age 17, David enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. From 1956 to 1959, he was stationed in the Hawaiian and Philippine Islands, forming lifelong bonds with fellow Marines and developing an enduring sense of discipline and commitment.
After returning home, David dedicated himself to a hardworking, blue-collar career that spanned 42 years. He took immense pride in providing for his family while also making time to coach baseball for his younger brothers and sons. His leadership and passion for the game left a lasting impression on many young athletes.
David’s love for the University of Michigan ran deep. A lifelong Wolverines fan, he worked as an usher at U-M football and basketball games and assisted in the Will Call Ticket office for U-M hockey throughout the mid-1970s. His enthusiasm for sports and community extended to his membership in the Ann Arbor Moose Lodge 1253 during the 1960s and 70s.
Faith played a significant role in David’s life. He was a longtime member of several Lutheran churches: Zion in Ann Arbor and San Antonio, TX; Our Savior in Chelsea, and Grace in Howell. After moving to Chelsea in 1978, he also became an active member of the Lions Club. A lifelong animal lover, David cherished the companionship of several dogs and one special cat over the years.
When David retired in 2001, he embraced the more relaxed pace of life, moving to Howell where he enjoyed driving the customer shuttle at Tanger Outlet Mall. Retirement also allowed him to fulfill his love of travel, taking journeys across North America and Europe. He also liked to tinker as a handyman, always willing to solve a problem at home or lend a hand to a friend.
In 2016, he and his beloved wife, Geraldine (Gerri) Peck, relocated to San Antonio to enjoy their later years in warmer weather. Married on May 12, 1962, David and Gerri shared 62 wonderful years together, building a life centered on love, family, and shared adventures.
David is survived by his wife, Gerri, and their three children: Jeffrey (Rebecca) of Holt; Charles (Christine) of Napoleon; and Renee (Wayne) Atkinson of Longview, TX. He was a devoted grandfather to Kyle (Cori), Jason, and Kathleen Hager (Alex Marlin); Chloe Hager; Daniel (Jaclyn) Johnson; Sean Atkinson; Tyler, Nolan, and Evan Greisinger; Tyler (Kayla) Piotrowski; and Matthew (Danielle) and Michael Atkinson. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Naomi, Olivia, Grayson, and Zoie, with Kaden expected in March 2025.
Other survivors include a sister, Jeanette Ragatz of College Station, TX; a brother, Alan Hager of Munith; a brother-in-law Gary (Marlene) Peck of Cleveland, SC; and his lifelong best friend, Gerald (Mary) Williams of Chelsea. He was preceded in death by four siblings, Madonna Jacobs, Richard Hager, Elaine Lowney, Daniel Hager; and a brother-in-law, Dennis Peck.
David’s kindness, humor, and unwavering dedication to his family and community will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of hard work, love for sports, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
A celebration of David’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to one of two non-profit organizations that were dear to David: Wounded Warrior Project or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
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Thoughts, prayers and love to all his family.