Obituary of Gary Lee Hagberg

GARY LEE HAGBERG Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 4, 2008, at the City Light Church at 15 West Eaton Road followed by a military burial ceremony at the Los Molinos cemetery. Gary passed away February 29, 2008 in Chico. Gary is survived by his wife, Jacklyn Hagberg; brother, Johnny Hagberg; nephews, Scott, Larry, and Allen Hagberg; five children, Jason Hagberg, Aubrey Hagberg, Jimmy Fitzgerald, Jennifer and Mark Clarno, and Jocelyn and Rob Glatthaar; 11 grandchildren, Jordan, Shelby, Mercedes, Gabriel, Drue, Benjamin, Samuel, Kaleb, Joshua, Jessie, and Siene. Gary was born August 20, 1938 on Beaver Island along the Mississippi River, but grew up roaming the hills of northern California around Summit City, north of Redding Calif. At 16 years of age he joined the Navy and served honorably until he joined the Army in 1960. He retired respectfully as a Sergeant Major from the Army in 1979. As an Airborne Ranger he was a master parachutist and served four years in Vietnam during which he was awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, and a purple heart. As a LRRP, Gary led hundreds of men into battle. After retiring from the military, Gary held a wide variety of jobs from a security guard to assisting his wife with daycare. Underneath Gary's rough and smoky exterior, he was a gentle person who enjoyed spending time with his family, friends, and pets. Those who knew and loved Gary felt his unselflessness and were touched by his loving kindness and generosity. He was an artist who drew and painted for most of his life. His creativity was inspired by western movies particularly those starring John Wayne. Gary was a wheeler and dealer of guns and knives. Though his wit was quick, he was the first to make fun of himself and loved to laugh and tell jokes. Gary's humor will be missed. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that contributions be sent to the Enloe Foundation Attention: Cancer Center in Honor of Gary Hagberg 1531 Esplanade Chico, California 95926. Published