Ross Hagen

R0SS HAGEN Iowa City Ross M. Hagen of Iowa City passed away May 9, 2015, of pneumonia at 86 years of age. Ross served as University of Iowa's associate director of university public information and later served on the staff of the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics from the late 80s until he retired in 1997. Ross is survived by his wife of 62 years, Jacquelin; sons, Kevin (Sandra), Mark (Linda), Ty (Sandra) and Sean (Karen); son-in-law, Levent Dumenci; brother, Justus (Betty); eight grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by daughter, Frances Hagen Dumenci; and grandson, Nathan Hagen. Ross was born in Glendive, Mont., where his father and mother were homestead wheat farmers. He joined the navy at 17 and served for two years before attending the School of Journalism at the University of Montana. After graduation, Ross returned to Glendive, Mont., where he met Jackie while selling her father newspaper advertising for his local furniture store. Ross and Jackie embarked on an amazing journey moving to 10 different cities in nine different states around the country. Ross left behind a rich legacy of unparalleled professionalism, intelligence, humility and humor. They loved to travel and gave their five children unbelievable experiences and opportunities while Jackie found time to be a published children's book author. Ross' early career was the Associated Press (AP) (Helena, Mont.; Den-ver, Colo.;, Atlanta, Ga.; Birmingham, Ala.; Boston, Mass.; and Stone Mountain, Ga). He worked his way to from AP correspondent to southern news director and the New England news director. Ross witnessed and reported on historical times and events. His reporting highlights included the Selma March, 1964 Republican Convention, Alabama football - coach Paul "Bear" Bryant/Joe Namath, Chappaquiddick Island Incident, Red Sox Impossible Dream, Vietnam War protests and much more. His middle career was in public relations working with Massey Ferguson (Des Moines), American Bar Association (Chicago) and FMC (Pocatello, Idaho). Ross' love and devotion to his family has built a legacy to all who knew him. He will also be remembered for his intelligent approach to life's issues. He treated everyone with dignity, respect, compassion and fairness. Most of all, he will be remembered for the 62 years he completely loved and cherished his wife - a legacy that has inspired unbroken marriages for all of his children. A private memorial is planned for the future.