In Loving Memory of Ric Hager
It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that I announce the passing of the love of my life, Ric Hager.
Born in Kenora, Ontario to Kathleen (Wade) and Alvin Hager, Ric was known for his quick wit and impeccable comedic timing. His prankster spirit was embedded in his DNA long before he entered this world—his first prank was on his mother, who gave birth to him wearing her winter boots. From the very beginning, Ric lived life at his own pace, and his legendary pranks earned him the nickname “Tricky Ricky” from his children and grandchildren.
In his late teens, Ric worked as a stock boy at F.W. Woolworth Co. in Kenora and was later offered a position in Winnipeg as assistant manager at the Sargent Street location. It was in Winnipeg where he met his greatest challenge—his future wife, me, Gail. With charm, humour, and determination, Ric won my heart, and we married just 13 months later on September 13, 1969.
When Ric was 26 years old, we built our first home in St. Andrews with the help of a few of his work buddies and a how- to build a house book. A self-taught carpenter, Ric could build anything. He also became a hobby farmer, raising chickens, rabbits, and goats. His love for animals led us to move in 1987 to a property north of Tyndall, where we expanded our farm to include horses, cattle, and turkeys. Ric took great joy in learning how to care for them.
Ric began working for the City of Winnipeg in February 1974 as a janitor. He later pursued further education in Power Engineering at Red River College, which led to supervisory roles within the Civic Properties Department. Ric loved his work and was deeply respected by his colleagues. His charismatic personality, sense of humour, and kind nature made him beloved by all who knew him. He was always smiling—and always ready to make you laugh.
Over our 56 years of marriage, our family grew to include three children, eight grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. The Hager household was never a solemn place. If you were feeling down or struggling, it was the place to be. Love, laughter, and acceptance were the foundation of our home—and that tradition will continue.
Ric always showed his LOVE and affection to our children and grandchildren. When our kids were growing, we spent many cherished years camping, fishing and taking road trips through the states, creating memories that will live on in our hearts. Ric had a playful spirit and loved goofing around with the kids and grandchildren. He loved being a grandpa – and he was adored in return. Even in the final days of his life, Ric was surrounded by love. Though he could no longer respond, I know he felt every word of love shared with him. He will forever watch over the kids as their guardian angel – smiling, guiding, and loving them from above.
Ric will be dearly missed by his wife Gail (Magdee); daughters Alanna (John) and Colleen (Bill); son Landen; grandchildren Kayla (Jaydyn), Haley (Shawn), Mitch (Tori), Courtney (Kaz), Ryder, Grayson, Jacob, and Lily; great-grandchildren Logan, Cooper, Jack, Rosie, and Khai; siblings Judy (Murray), Randy (Laraine), and Gail (Tooty); brother-in-law Ken; and sisters-in-law Kim and Deborah (Brahim). He was predeceased by his parents, Kathleen and Alvin Hager; mother and father in-law, Elizabeth and August (Gus) Magdee; sister Valerie and brother in-law, Andy.
A special thank you to the staff at Beausejour Hospital as well as his home care team for their exceptional care and compassion towards Ric. Your kindness made a profound difference during a difficult time. We will forever be grateful.
A private family service and cremation have taken place.
Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on Ric’s memorial page using the comment field below.