Elizabeth M. Hagen

Elizabeth M. Hagen, formerly Myrtle Elizabeth Johnson, of Green Bay, Wisconsin, passed away on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. She was 95.

Elizabeth was born on August 11, 1930, in Irene (Clay County), South Dakota, to Hannah Elizabeth Mortvedt and Joseph Theodore Johnson. Raised in a small rural community by first-generation Norwegian American parents, she grew up with a strong sense of resilience and community that stayed with her throughout her life.

She began her working life as a soda jerk at a local drugstore and carried her love of making chocolate sodas with her throughout the years. Elizabeth graduated from Irene High School in 1948 and went on to attend Augustana College in Sioux Falls. In 1952, she married her college sweetheart, Robert Thomas Hagen. The couple began their life together in St. Louis, Missouri, where Elizabeth worked for Lutheran Social Services. In 1954, they welcomed their first child, Karen. After Robert completed his Masters of Social Work degree at Washington University, the family moved to Green Bay, where they made their home and raised their growing family, welcoming Linda, David, and Michelle.

Elizabeth was deeply involved in her church and was known for her steady commitment to service. She participated in Church Women, Quilting, Circle, and Bible Study groups.  She cared  about fairness and dignity for all people and was a quiet but firm advocate for human rights and equality.

Elizabeth had many interests and an appreciation for simple joys. She loved hiking in Door County and enjoyed writing, even winning a few small competitions with her poems. She sewed clothing for family and friends, including a beautiful baptism gown and bridesmaid dresses. An exceptional baker, Elizabeth always had something ready to share with visitors—often lefse and other Scandinavian favorites.

She is survived by her children and her grandchildren—Erik, Greg, Kirsten, Jacob, and Elizabeth—who will remember her warmth, love, and steady presence. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Robert; and her sister, Helen Ardis (Johnson) Smith.

Our family would like to thank the caring staff at Tender Hearts Memory Care Center for their kindness and support. 

The funeral will be on Friday June 26.  Visitation will start at 10:30am at the Lyndahl Funeral home.  The funeral will begin at 11am and be followed by a luncheon.

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