Clare Butch Hagen

Clare “Butch” Hagen passed away peacefully in his sleep on Friday, December 2 at 80 years young. He is preceded in death by his parents Harry and Doris Hagen, his daughter Kim Hagen, his son Ken Moon, and sisters Carol Watson and Betty High. He is survived by his beloved and devoted wife of 38 years, Carolyn. His humor, hearty side-arm hugs, and ferocious quiet love will be deeply missed by his sons, Philip (Nora) Hagen and Bob (Marilynn) Moon, his daughters Deb (Dan) Moon and Wendy (Rob Wiborn) Moon, his brothers, Grover and Terry Hagen, sister Tina Hagen, and his nine grandchildren, thirteen great grand children, and many nieces and nephews. Butch and Carolyn were introduced by his sister-in-law, and it wasn’t love at first sight. He slowly wore her down through his charm and humor, taking her dancing, bowling, and to truck and tractor pulls. They married on a trip to Vegas with her brother Wayne and sister-in-law Chris as witnesses. They spent the next 38 years together watching their families grow, taking a trip to Hawaii, building a home, and eventually retiring and moving to Tennessee to be closer to family. Butch loved all outdoor adventures, from deer and bear hunting to fishing and boating. His deer sausage is legendary with family and friends. Papa loved each of his grandchildren and great grandchildren for all their unique and individual personalities. He was deeply proud of all of their accomplishments: graduating from college, becoming professionals, teaching others, sharing their art, their dance skills, and their love of music. He always had a knee for them to climb on, and he loved to snuggle with them. His greatest joys were watching them laugh, play, and dance their way through the world. His sly side smile and naughty sense of humor could help him steal an extra cookie, give a special toy, or take an unplanned adventure with his “little buddy” or his “munchkins” off Nana’s radar. Visitation will be at Alexander Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Gallatin on Tuesday December 6 from 1-3 pm.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donations in Butch’s memory to the Arbor Day Foundation to plant trees, or Alive Hospice in Nashville, Tennessee.