Obituary of Franciscus John Hagen

Franciscus Johannes Hagen, " Frans", originally from The Netherlands, passed away peacefully at The Adler Center for Caring on Tuesday, May 3 with his devoted wife Trudy by his side. He fought a long battle with pancreatic cancer and was almost 81 years old. He was born May 25, 1935 in Lisse, The Netherlands. As the oldest of eight children he enjoyed a happy and busy childhood even though the family endured the hardships of living through WWII in occupied Holland. He graduated from the Hotel School in The Hague and continued his studies at The Hotel School in Luzern, Switzerland, after which he took up a career in hospitality. His first position was banquet steward on the Holland America Line, where he spent a number of years traveling to numerous global ports. This laid the basis for Frans' love of food and restaurants as well as cruising. On December 29, 1961 he married Trudy (Geertruida F Rikken) of Lent, The Netherlands. Together, they took on the adventure to emigrate to the United States in May 1962. Frans enjoyed his work and established a proven record as an experienced hospitality veteran, an innovative educator, and a skilled executive. He had a long-standing career in the Hospitality-Restaurant Industry, culminating in his owning and operating a restaurant in the DC Metropolitan area. Frans' commitment to the Industry included an active role as a member of the RAMW (Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington) and the RAMW Board of Directors for almost 50 years . As the founder of the RAMW Education Foundation Frans initiated partnerships with local school districts and developed career education programs in the hospitality and culinary arts fields. In this effort, he actively contributed to the futures of many young aspiring chefs from the Carlos Rosario International Public Charter School as well as those of Fairfax County Public Schools. He frequently earned awards in recognition of his support including the prestigious Honorary RAMMY Award in 2009. In 2014 a scholarship award for qualifying students was established in his name by the RAMW Board of Education Foundation, called Educated Eats . The "Frans Hagen " Scholarship" continues to be awarded every year to both high school students and individuals, who are interested in pursuing their education toward a food service and culinary profession. Frans will be remembered for his love of travel and cruising, his generous spirit as well as his many kindnesses to others. He is survived by his wife Trudy of 54 years and two children. Marc Hagen and his partner Cecily Armstrong and his two children from a previous marriage Hunter and Wilson. A daughter Ingrid Hagen and her husband Jacco Knotnerus and their two children Simon and Isa all living in The Netherlands. As a family they relished going to many swimming pools nationwide where both of their children participated in national swimming events. They also enjoyed traveling in R.V.'s and made several trips in the U.S. and Canada. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am. Thursday May 12, 2016 at Christ the Redeemer Church, 46833 Harry Byrd Hwy, Sterling, VA 20164. In lieu of flowers the family encourages donations to Capitol Caring's The Adler Center for Caring, 24419 Millstream Drive, Aldie VA 20105 e-mail condolences may be made at adamsgreen.com..