Philip Hagen

Philip Hagen, 91, of Fargo, ND, passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Fargo Elim under the care of Ethos Hospice, surrounded by his family. Philip was born on January 12, 1935, in Fargo, ND, to Arnold and Helen Hagen. 

He graduated from Pelican Rapids High School and went on to serve in the United States Navy, where he was stationed at Treasure Island in San Francisco, CA. On June 11, 1955, Philip married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Lillian Sanstead. 

Following his military service, he attended Concordia College to complete his pre-dental studies and later earned his dental degree from the University of Minnesota.

Philip opened his first dental practice in Fargo at the Northport Shopping Center, where he practiced from 1962 to 1984. During his years in Fargo, he was an active member of Messiah Lutheran Church, singing in the choir, serving on the church council, and contributing to the television ministry. 

He was also deeply involved in Lions, becoming the first president of the Edgewood Lions Club and dedicating time to initiatives such as bowling for the blind. Additionally, he served on the advisory board for the dental assistant program at NDSSS. 

In 1984, Philip and Lillian moved to Pelican Rapids, MN, where he opened another dental practice and continued serving patients until his retirement in 2000. He remained active in Faith Lutheran Church, participating in the choir, serving on the church council, and contributing to various building projects. His commitment to Lions continued during these years as well.

Beyond his professional life, Philip had a remarkable passion for knifemaking. A member of the Knifemakers' Guild since 1976, his craftsmanship became known worldwide. He took great pride in creating unique, individualized pieces, continuing this work for many years after his retirement. Philip shared 70 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Lillian. 

He is survived by his wife; daughters, Theresa (Chuck) Wickenheiser and Karen (Todd) Lindblom; grandchildren, Trevor (Adrienne) Wickenheiser, Leah (Josh) Green, Nicholas (Danielle) Lindblom, and Meghan Lindblom; great-grandchildren, Adelaide and McAlister Wickenheiser; Keeley, Nora, and Henrik Green; Wyatt and Bodie Lindblom; and Lily Lindblom; as well as his half-sister, Judy Vorachek; and half-brothers, David (Stephanie) Hagen and Paul (Lee) Hagen. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Helen Hagen.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home in Fargo, ND, with a visitation one hour prior. The service will be livestreamed on the funeral home's website. Burial will take place at Fargo National Cemetery in Harwood, ND. Arrangements are entrusted to Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home.