Charles "Bozo" Alois Vander Hagen

Charles "Bozo" Vander Hagen

December 30, 1930 – December 8, 2024

Charles “Bozo” Alois Vander Hagen, beloved son, brother, uncle, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on December 8, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was 93 years old. Born in Detroit, Michigan, on December 30, 1930, to Charles and Pearl (nee Sanderson) Vander Hagen, Chuck grew up with a deep love for family, faith, and the simplicities of life.

In August 1956, Chuck married the love of his life, Irene “Flo” Sobiecki, at St. Anne Catholic Parish in Warren, Michigan. Together, they created a beautiful family, filled with love and support. Their partnership lasted fifty-one years until Flo’s passing in 2007, but the family they built continues to thrive, carrying forward the caring and nurturing legacy they left behind.

Chuck cherished nothing more than spending time with his children and, in particular, his grandchildren. His love for them was immeasurable, and they were the heart of his world. His best buddy was his great-grandson Stephen, and the connection, love, and close friendship they shared was like no other. Chuck’s family was everything to him, and his devotion to them will forever be remembered.

Athletic by nature, Chuck was passionate about sports. He enjoyed golf, bowling, baseball and even dabbled in karate, coming just months shy of earning his black belt. His enthusiasm for sports extended to watching them, as he was a lifelong fan of the Detroit Red Wings, University of Michigan football, and the Detroit Tigers. His love for baseball was especially evident as he often listened to the games on the radio, eagerly sharing play-by-play commentary with anyone who would listen.

Chuck worked at Chrysler for many years, serving as an Area Foreman until his retirement in 1987. His post-retirement years were filled with hobbies that showcased his talent, patience, and dedication. He had a particular knack for woodworking, crafting beautiful, handmade items for his family. His attention to detail in his craft mirrored his approach to life—one of patience, care, and consistency.

In his quieter moments, Chuck found solace in writing. His poetry offered him peace and comfort, and it became a way for him to express his thoughts and emotions. Another of his favorite pastimes was sitting on the porch, watching the world go by. It was there that he welcomed the company of friends and family, finding joy in these simple yet meaningful moments.

A devout Catholic, Chuck was a longtime member of St. Anne Catholic Parish in Warren. He found strength and support through his faith and would always turn to God when needed. He lived his life with compassion, kindness, and love, traits that demonstrated his love for The Lord.

Chuck was also a lover of animals, particularly dogs. He lived with two white Labs that he claimed as his own: Carly and Beau. Predeceased by one of his most cherished pets, Rusty. They were his loyal companions, with Carly often sleeping by his side in recent months. They, too, will miss him dearly.

Beloved brother of Alphonse “Butch” Vander Hagen, Harvetta (Arthur) Cary, Danny Vander Hagen, Judy (Donald) Estes, and Donna Dollin. Loving father-in-law of Theresa Ozanich and Robert Simmons. Dear grandfather of Lori Pearce, Scott Bawol, Darrin Ozanich, Marc (Angela) Ozanich, Ronald Simmons, and James (Sandra) Simmons. Adored great grandfather of Megan (Cody) aka Little Toots Pearce, Stephen (Brittany) Pearce, Jessica (Chris) Dowding, Jonah Bawol, Tyler Ozanich, Charlie Ozanich, Michelle Ozanich, Orion Ozanich, and Marc Ozanich Jr. Proud great great-grandfather of Brody, Boca, Rocco, Bricker, Callie, Harrison, Kira, Camden, and Kaden. Cherished uncle of Chris (Tracey) Vander Hagen, Craig (Renee) Vander Hagen, and Sherry (Sharise) Vander Hagen, and many other nieces and nephews. Valued and much cherished friend and companion of Marge Repoz.

Preceded in death by his parents Charles and Pearl Vander Hagen; his wife Irene “Flo” Vander Hagen; his children John Ozanich and Linda Simmons; his grandson Robert Simmons; his siblings Caroline “Cookie” Terrien, George Coultis, John Coultis, Mary (Harold) Schwall, Margaret (George) Marchette, and sister-in-law Susan Vander Hagen.

Charles A. Vander Hagen was a man of great warmth, humor, generosity, and most importantly: love. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, care, and dedication to family and community. He will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Visitation for Chuck will take place on Friday, December 13, 2024 from 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm at D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, located at 30009 Hoover Road, Warren, Michigan 48093.

Saturday, December 14, 2024 beginning at 9:30 am until the time of Mass at St. Anne Catholic Parish. Funeral mass will take place on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 10:00 am at St. Anne Catholic Parish, located at 32000 Mound Road, Warren, Michigan 48092.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), ASPCA Gift Processing Center, P.O. Box 96929, Washington, DC 20090-6929, or to Kids Without Cancer, P.O. Box 32783, Detroit, Michigan 48232.

Rest in peace, Chuck “Bozo” Vander Hagen. You will forever remain in our hearts.