Edward Patrick Gagen, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2026, at the age of 83, at home with his wife, Troby, by his side.
Born on January 11, 1943, in East St. Louis, IL, Ed was the son of Patrick and Dorothy Gagen. He lived a life centered around family, faith, hard work, and the simple joys of being together.
Ed and Troby shared 39 years together, building a life filled with family, faith, travel, laughter, and countless memories. He was a loving and devoted father to Joshua and Sean and took great pride in watching his sons grow and build families of their own.
Being a grandfather was one of Ed’s greatest joys. His grandchildren, Lucy, Annabeth, and Lainey, held a special place in his heart. He loved being part of their lives, whether attending a school event, reading stories, or simply spending time together. The love he had for his grandchildren was evident in the time and attention he gave them.
Ed dedicated 30 years of his career to McDonnell Douglas/Boeing, finishing his career with the Peace Sun program in Saudi Arabia before retiring in 1999. Outside of work, he enjoyed fishing, watching his St. Louis Cardinals, and being involved in scouting and his sons’ sports. He was often happiest simply being there—watching, coaching, encouraging, and supporting the people he loved.
Ed’s faith was an important part of his life, and he was devoted to the Catholic Church. His faith, quiet strength, and love for his family were a constant throughout his life.
Ed is survived by his wife, Troby Gagen; children, Joshua Gagen and Sean (Morgan) Gagen; grandchildren, Annabeth Gagen, and Lucy and Lainey Gagen; brothers, Tom (Janet) Gagen and Kevin (Maryanne Kuzara) Gagen; in-laws, Tracy (Dale) Steiner, Todd (Kathy) Arnold, Tammy (Jerry) Plummer, and Tyler (Andrea) Arnold; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who loved him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Pat and Dorothy Gagen, and his in-laws, Don and Meredith Arnold.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Pierron, IL, or Bond County Hospice Care.
Visitation and service will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 10:00 AM–1:00 PM at Kassly Mortuary, Ltd. Fairview Heights, IL.
Burial Service will be on Monday, October 5, 2026, in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO at 1:30 PM.