Kenneth Allen Hagar

Kenneth Allen Hagar, better known as Ken Hagar, was born November 4, 1944, in Janesville, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2025, in Fairfield, California, at the age of 80. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother whose presence brought love and laughter to those closest to him. Ken’s life was full of remarkable experiences that reflected his curiosity, talent, and drive. Though he could be quiet and reserved, Ken had a witty sense of humor that shone among friends and family. His playful, offbeat comedy brought smiles to all. In the 1950s, Ken and his family moved to California. As a child, he was a class clown and loved to make people smile. His classmates referred to him as Jerry Lewis. While in high school, he briefly played with the surf-rock band The Chantays, as the originally bassist. He contributed to the creation of their legendary hit song Pipeline. His passion for music continued throughout his life, whether through writing, listening to poetry, or his love of jazz. Equally, Ken’s lifelong love of cars became one of his defining joys. He was fortunate to work alongside and form a close friendship with legendary race car driver Louis Unser, a connection that spoke to his mechanical skill and his deep appreciation for the artistry of racing. A gifted athlete in his own right, Ken excelled in track during high school and college, even qualifying for the Olympics before an Achilles injury altered his path. He served in the army in honor for his country, after being drafted into the Vietnam War. He built lifelong bonds with his brothers in arms and carried deep pride in his service. Just before he left for Vietnam, he attended a wedding in East LA, for a friend that he made during bootcamp. During that wedding he met my mother from the wedding party. They exchanged addresses and become pen pals. When he returned from Vietnam, he married her. Following his military years, Ken dedicated himself to education. He first started teaching in towns in Central California. During this time, he initialed dozens of fundraisers, raising money for immigrant fieldworker children to go to college. Later moving to Benicia, he become a beloved teacher at Benicia High School in Solano County. Continuing to fundraise for kids’ education, mentoring countless students having profound impacts. Remembered for both his dedication and his ability to inspire. Ken’s entrepreneurial spirit also led him to found an energy conservation company, a pioneering effort in the field long before the industry gained wide recognition. Even after success in business, he returned to teaching, his true calling. Ken is survived by his beloved wife, Lillian Hagar; his children, Kristie Hagar and Wolfgang Kenneth Hagar; and his cherished grandchildren, Tobias and Delilah Star, and Scarlett Dudka. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered with love and gratitude. There will be a Visitation will be held at Passalacqua Funeral Chapel, 901 West 2nd Street, Benicia, California, on Monday, September 22nd, at 04:00 PM. A Catholic Vigil service at 6:00 PM. The Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Dominic's Catholic Church, 475 E I St., Benicia, California on Tuesday, September 23rd at 11:00 AM. The graveside service will be at, Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, 5810 Midway Road, Dixon California on Wednesday, September 24th at 12:30 PM. with full military honors. A reception will follow immediately after the service at Pedro's Cocina Dixon https://pedroscocinadixon.com/.

Kenneth Allen Hagar

November 4, 1944 - September 8, 2025