Gertrude Laverne Hager

Gertrude L. Hager, age 86, of Garnett, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, August 10, 2008 at Olathe Medical Center in Olathe, Kansas. She was born December 2, 1921, in Bertrand, Nebraska, the second of ten children of John "Jack" and Margaret (Power) Maloney. Gertrude's early years were spent assisting in the care of her siblings. Gertrude married William "Bill" Hager on June 15, 1940, and they traveled doing bridge construction in eastern Nebraska and western Iowa. Their first child, Carolyn, was born during this time. Bill decided to try farming so they moved to Nevada, Missouri, where their second daughter, Alberta, was born. In 1946 they moved to a farm east of Garnett, and Gertrude went to work outside the home as a factory worker, and in retail sales, and their third daughter, Dorothy, was born. The Hager's moved to a farm southwest of Garnett, and in 1966, Gertrude attended Hayes School of Cosmetology in Mission, Kansas. Upon graduation, Gertrude and her daughter, Carolyn purchased the Professional Beauty Salon in Garnett, continuing to operate it until 1980. During a portion of that time Gertrude also owned and operated a salon in Richmond, Kansas. After the sale of the salon she worked part-time at the Arkhaven Nursing Home. Over the years Gertrude and Bill enjoyed bowling, square and round dancing, playing cards, and pool with many friends, as well as watching many hours of little league and 4-H events of their children and grandchildren. Gertrude belonged to a Home Demonstration Unit in the Hyatt district; she was a leader in the Silver Arrow 4-H club; a member of the Pieces and Patches Quilt Guild; enjoyed Bible study at the Christian Church; and enjoyed playing cards with many friends in the community. She was preceded in death by Bill, her husband of 52 years; her parents; seven brothers; and one sister. Gertrude is survived by three daughters, Carolyn Bennett and husband Don of Garnett, Kansas; Alberta Bishop and husband Dan of Garnett, Kansas; Dorothy Heimbigner and husband Paul of Spokane, Washington; one sister, Margaret Pembroke of Hobbs, New Mexico; six grandchildren, Tom Wolken and wife Deanna; Chuck Wolken and wife Tina; Ryan Walter and wife Carla; Robyne Walter; and Chad Flinn, all of Garnett, Kansas; William "Bill" Waite; Jaime Martin and husband Jared of Spokane, Washington; and seventeen great grandchildren. Gertrude or "Gertie", as she was known by many, grew up during tough times, learning to work at an early age, and that work ethic followed her through all of her life. During the last few years she experienced many health issues and spent the last few months of her life in the Golden Heights Living Center, where she enjoyed the activities and the company of friends. When she reminisced, she often said "I've had a good life." Who could ask for more? She will be missed by family and friends. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM, Thursday, August 14, 2008 at the Feuerborn Family Funeral Service Chapel, Garnett. Burial will follow at the Garnett Cemetery in Garnett, Kansas. The family will greet friends from 7:00 to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, August 13, 2008, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Garnett Senior Center.