Harold Raymond Hagelman

Harold R. Hagelman was born April 22, 1927 in Astoria, New York and went home to Jesus February 11, 2020, joining his wife, May, and his daughter, Jeannie in God’s glory.

His legacy is one of service; first and foremost to God, to his country, to his family, and to his community. A Part of a generation history writes is the greatest, a sense of duty and adventure brought him to the far Pacific during World War II, enlisting in the US Navy in 1943. Continuing his legacy of service and his signature fearlessness, he became one of New York’s Bravest, as a lieutenant in the FDNY, serving New York and Queens for more than 25 years. He was a great baseball player, business owner and skilled pilot, as well as a handy neighbor, a good son, a brother, a loving husband, a hard-working father, a kind uncle, and friend. During the more than 30 years he called Highland Beach, FL home, he used his retirement years to serve as Chaplain for the Navy League, be a regular at the firehouse, and return to public service as Mayor of Highland Beach in his 80’s!

 He loved old hymns, a good German beer with his lunch, his 8 grandkids, and making the most delicious Belgian waffles! His mashed potatoes were famous, he loved Frank Sinatra, dancing with our nana, and singing in the choir at church! He was a great baker, and heaven now surly smells like his apple cake and coffee!   

 He was the definition of a hero to so many, but I knew him as my grandfather. He lit up at the sound of my voice, covered me in prayer daily, and loved me deeply. He taught me to love God with all that I am, even with my imperfections, and believe the best is yet to come. Whenever I was nervous or uncertain, I’d hear him say, “don’t worry, the Yankees will win.” He was afraid of nothing, he watched over everyone, and He claimed his seat at the table of life! He did not know defeat, because like any sailor knows, he just changed his course, focused on the new horizon, and trusted that smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.

I loved his rebellious spirit, which could be misunderstood at times, but resided next to the most tender heart; he pushed against mediocrity and had a spirit of abundance, and strived to know all of life’s goodness. He treated others with generosity and kindness, and because of him, I know God’s grace covers me, opportunity is all around me, and to never waste a moment. He showed me that success is in the fight I bring to life everyday, and to never let my spirit be defeated; rather, change my course, pray harder, hold my head high, and expect the best.   

Poppy, we will miss your beautiful blue eyes that were always the softest when you were looking at those you loved. The theme song for your life is by your buddy Frank, because you really did do it “My Way.” You looked at life as an adventure, you believed butter belonged on everything, you were never embarrassed, never defeated, you were always on watch, and now you belong to heaven, saving the best seats for when we are together again. I’m so proud that you were mine, and that I got to treasure you. Until we meet again, we’ll all “watch the water.” You’ve answered the last call, pops, and we’ll be seeing you soon! I love you, I love you, and I love you.

A Memorial Service will be held at 4:00 PM on Thursday, February 20 at St. Andrew's South in Boca Raton.

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