George A. Hagelund

Massena- Mr. George A. Hagelund, 86, peacefully passed away on Saturday July 11, 2015 surrounded by the love and comfort of his girls. Arrangements are entrusted to Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. George was born on a farm in Rodman on March 27, 1929 to the late Arthur F. and Lillie A. (Crowder) Hagelund. He was raised and educated locally, graduating from Cato Meridian Central School in 1948; where He was very athletic, playing football and baseball. On June 24, 1950 in South Hannibal, George married his soul-mate and love of his life, Janice Hovey. They raised their home, family, and farm together, sharing in a special and incomparable union of 65 years. George attended Welding School in Troy, Ohio; becoming a certified master welder. For 30 dedicated years he worked at ALCOA; as well as passing on his knowledge by teaching welding apprenticeships. He retired in 1992. His true passion in life was his horses. Those who knew and loved George would say "his brain was wired for horses". A very intelligent man, who raised his own livestock farm and knew each and every bloodline for each of his horses'; his mind was the computer for statistics and breeding before they had computers. He spent many years traveling as a participant and a spectator for horse shows and rodeo's all over the U.S. and Canada. George hosted rodeos on his own farm where he would display his talent of roping and provide the opportunity for people in the area to participate. He was one of the originators of the Far Northern Appaloosa Club and a member of the Borderline Ropers Association. George's gentle heart and comforting nature was always felt by those who knew him. He will be greatly missed. He is survived by his wife, Janice, his children: Ronald Hagelund of Nicholville, and Cheri Hagelund of Brasher Falls, his grandchildren: Josh Arquiett, Nikia Arquiett, Chris Lavine, and Lydia Hagelund, his great-grandson, Ethan Arquiett, and his nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Always close to his heart is the memory of those who predeceased him, his son, Thomas Hagelund who passed away December 5, 2014, and his brother, Fred Hagelund. Visitation will be Wednesday from 4-6 at the Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. George's Memorial Service and Celebration of Life will commence at the conclusion of visitation at 6pm, with Rev. Lee Sweeney officiating. Flowers are gratefully declined; for those wishing to express an act of kindness, memorial contributions may be made in George's honor to: Massena Volunteer Rescue Squad Inc., 341 E. Orvis St. Massena, NY 13662 or Little Bit of Heaven Inc., 35 Hallahan Rd. North Lawrence, NY 12967. Memories and condolences may be shared with his family at www.hammillfh.com.