Clifford Hager

Clifford Howell "Butch" Hager, 70, formerly of Chattanooga, died on Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2013, at his residence in Johnson City, Tenn. A descendant of pioneer settlers, including Daniel Boone, he was born on Dec. 11, 1942, in Chattanooga, to the late Clifford Hager and Jewell Dickson Hager. His father was serving in World War II when Butch was born. He graduated from City High School in 1960 and then attended the University of Chattanooga. He received a bachelor of arts degree from the University of South Florida in 1964. Butch was honorably discharged from the United States Air Force in 1974 as a second lieutenant. He served in Thailand during the VietNam War. While serving as a captain at Hill Air Force Base in Utah in 1969, he received the Air Force Commendation Medal. After he left the military, he went to work for DuPont in Wilmington, Del., and in Chattanooga, where he was a top performing salesman for many years. After his division was bought out by Remay, he moved to Nashville in 1986 to work there. Butch was an avid bowler and hunter in his younger years. Survivors include his sister, Amanda Hall and brother-in-law, Steve Hall, of Hixson; and nephew, Zach Hall, of Knoxville. Butch was very proud of his nephew and kept up with all of Zachs athletic activities. He is also survived by his aunt, Nora Hager and many cousins in the Chattanooga and Flintstone, Ga. area. The family would like to extend a special thanks to Mark and Debbie Benenati for their excellent care of Butch over the last several years. Graveside services are 2:30 p.m. Friday in Chattanooga National Cemetery. Family friend, Tony Hicks, will conduct the service. Pallbearers will be Steve Hall, Zach Hall, Tony Hicks, Mark Benenati and Bob Reeves. Honorary pallbearers will be Butchs cousins and best friends while growing up, Joe Hager and Jimmy Dickson. Memorial contributions may be made to The Lottie Moon Christmas Offering or other mission offerings at your local church. Visit www.lanefh.com to share condolences. Arrangements are by Lane Funeral Home, 601 Ashland Terrace, 877-3524.