JEROME`JERRY’HAGERJUNE2,1931

JEROME ‘JERRY’ HAGER June 2, 1931 ~ November 20, 2022
It is with great sadness that the family of Jerry Hager announce his passing on Sunday, November 20, 2022, at the age of 91 years. Left to cherish Jerry’s memory are his wife, Katherine (Kay) Lesmeister; ten children: Barry (Joyce) Hager, Julie Stemmann, Trish (Jim) Hirsekorn, Dan (Michele) Hager, Eve (Dave) Lantz, Rose (Dan) Cowan, Rita Hager (Jerry Edwards), Bonnie (Bernie) Cook, Laurie (Darby) Gagnon and Trina (Mike) Kobley; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; sister, Caroline Knapik as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by Kay’s children: Linda (Bob) Crockford, Marlene Conibear, Janet Wiebe and Laurie Lesmeister as well as their children and grandchildren. Jerry was predeceased by his first wife, Mary Herlein; son, Kelly; son-in-law, Dieter Stemmann; great-granddaughter, Lauren Stemmann; siblings, Edward, Albert, Pete, Nick, Kay Read; parents, Michael and Marianna, and Kay’s son, Clint and son-in-law, Jim Coniber. Jerry was born at the family home above the store in Compeer, Alberta on June 2, 1931 and was the youngest of seven children. He started school in Compeer and completed his education in Edmonton. Jerry worked at the family store, garage, on the farm, and was an owner/ operator of various businesses. One of his most gratifying accomplishments was the starting of the engine for the power plant in Compeer. He also indentured in the electrical trade at the age of 45. Jerry married Maria Herlein on July 10, 1951, in Compeer, and together, they raised eleven children, ran the general store, and farmed until they retired to Medicine Hat in 1981. He was an avid carpenter and electrician, was actively involved with the church and community, and was instrumental in building the Compeer Arena and the addition to the Community Hall. Jerry generously volunteered his time and talents to family, friends and the community. He was a sports enthusiast who enjoyed hockey, baseball, curling, golfing, playing cards, music and dancing, as well as being “king” of the remote. Jerry was a jack of all trades and was known as “Papa Saw” by his children, who each have been blessed with a treasured legacy of craftmanship and love. Retirement days in Medicine Hat were never dull as Jerry continued with helping on the farm, renovations, carpentry work, and also enjoyed travelling with his siblings. He married Kay in 2001 and together they shared their love and companionship with their extended families, friends and all who were dear to them. Despite his deteriorating health, Jerry maintained his sense of humour, and often had the staff at The Wellington smiling; when they would ask “How are you feeling today Jerry”, Jerry would simply reply, “With my fingers”, a joke he shared with his sisters. Jerry will be sadly missed, lovingly remembered, and etched in his family’s hearts forever and always. The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff at The Wellington and St. Joseph’s Hospice for their kindness, care and compassion Jerry re
ceived during his stay.
Those we love remain with us, for love itself lives on. And cherished memories never fade, because a loved one’s gone. Those we love can never be, more than a thought apart. For as long as there is memory, they’ll live on in the heart.
Vigil Prayers will be recited at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat on Sunday, November 27, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. Anyone who is not able to attend but wishes to be a part of the Vigil Prayer service can visit www.cooksouthland.com and select the view broadcast button on the home page at service time. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Family Parish, 1451 Strachan Road S.E., Medicine Hat on Monday, November 28, 2022, at 1:00 p.m. with Father Naveed Arif celebrant. Those wishing to join the family virtually and experience the Funeral Mass via live-stream are invited to watch by connecting to YouTube and searching: Medicine Hat Holy Family Church and selecting the video link. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting www.cooksouthland.com)Memorial donations in Jerry’s name may be made directly to St. Joseph’s Home – Carmel Hospice, 156 – 3 Street N.E., Medicine Hat, AB., T1A 5M1 or to a charity of one’s choice. Honoured to serve the family is
Cook Southland Funeral Chapel Crematorium & Reception Facility 901 – 13th Street S.W. Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4V4 Phone 403-527-6455 www.cooksouthland.com “Locally owned & directed”