Joe Dee Hager, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on October 1, 2023 at the age of 79, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Joe was born on September 11, 1944, in Blackwell, Oklahoma, to his proud parents, Harold and Jean(Wise)Hager. He spent his formative years in Reese, Kansas, spending many hours with his brothers growing up on the river and attending grade school before moving with his family to Texhoma, OK.  He completed his high school education in the Texhoma school system.  In 1962 Joe joined the U.S. Army where he received awards for expert pistol, first class gunner and rifle sharpshooter, he was an explosive demolition expert while being stationed in Hawaii. It was during his time in the Army that Joe earned his GED, reflecting his determination and commitment to self-improvement.  His service to his country was commendable and he was honorably discharged from active duty in May of 1965 having attained the rank of Specialist 4th class.

On June 26, 1965, Joe embarked on a lifelong journey with his beloved wife Karolyn Sue Grice, as they exchanged vows in Hardesty, Oklahoma. Together, they raised a beautiful family, blessed with three children: Shane, Shawnda, and Clint, affectionately known as Cody. Their journey took them to various places, including  Liberal, Kansas, Texhoma, Guymon,  Sharon, and Vici, Oklahoma, as Joe pursued his career.

Joe was a dedicated and hardworking man, having been employed by UPS for 27 years and serving as a union steward of Local 866 Teamsters. His work ethic and dedication earned the respect of his colleagues and the trust of his employers.

Beyond his professional life, Joe had a deep passion for the great outdoors. He found solace and joy in hunting, fishing, and horseback riding.  He enjoyed spending time in the country on the Spring Creek Ranch raising and caring for his quarter horses. His love for family was evident in his commitment to spending quality time with them, whether on trail rides, camping trips, or cheering at grand kids ballgames. He was a true enthusiast of life's simple pleasures, including reading, OU football and owning a few muscle cars.  He was a firearms enthusiast and an active member of the Guthrie Gunfighters and Yesterday Riders, communities that enriched his life and allowed him to pursue his passions and interests.

At the age of 33, Joe experienced a profound spiritual transformation when he was baptized by John Leonard at the Church of God. He described this moment as the washing away of black x's on his heart, a testament to the renewal of his faith and commitment to his spiritual journey.  He remained an active church member the rest of his life.

Joe was preceded in death by his loving parents, Harold and Jean Hager, and his beloved son, Cody Hager. He also joins his in-laws, Lawson and Ruby Grice, in eternal peace.

Joe leaves behind a lasting legacy of love and family that will forever carry his memory in their hearts. He is survived by his devoted wife, Karolyn, with whom he shared 57 wonderful years of marriage. His children, Shane Hager and wife Amie, Shawnda Ferbrache and husband Jeremy, along with his grandchildren, Billy, Dillan, Quaid, Phoebe, Rylan, Kortlyn, Jade, Hunter, Dakota, Wyatt, and his great-grandsons Cody Lewis, Zaiden Hager and one on the way.

Joe's brothers, Terry Hager and wife Pam, and Rob Hager, along with several uncles, nieces, nephews, and countless cherished friendswho will continue to honor his memory through the stories and experiences they shared with him.

Joe Dee Hager will be remembered for his unwavering love, his adventurous spirit, and his dedication to his family, friends, and community. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished in our hearts. May he rest in eternal peace.

Memorials may be made to the

Vici EMT or Vici Fire Department

C/O Shaw Funeral Home

P.O. Box 276, Vici, OK 73859.