Rutgar Hoag Obituary (1933 - 2025)

Rutgar “Rud” John Hoag, of Williamston, Michigan, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2025, at the age of 92. Rutgar was born on April 20, 1933, in Springport, Michigan, the son of Lester and Mary (Deeds) Hoag. He was raised in Springport and where he graduated with the Class of 1951. He continued his education at Michigan State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1959 and then a master’s degree in education administration. Rutgar devoted his professional life to being a teacher and principal at several Michigan schools: Sexton, Eastern, Everett, Harry Hill, Madison High School in Adrian, and the Williamston School Districts where he was a beloved figure among students, parents, and faculty during the 1970s and 1980s. He opened young minds to the lively arts, debate, radio, television, and public speaking wherever he went. When he was 18, Rutgar married his high school sweetheart, Beverly Jean Larsen, and was soon drafted into the U.S. Army to serve in Germany as part of the 2nd Armored Division’s occupying forces from 1951 to 1953. His unit, named Hell on Wheels, was part of the Seventh Army (VII Corps) and NATO forces sent back to Germany after World War II to deter Soviet aggression. He drove tanks and ran their communications along the border between East and West Germany. As a young private, then corporal, he was fortunate to be accompanied by his young bride, Beverly, for this European adventure that they would recall in many stories for the remainder of their days. After he retired, Rutgar took up raising horses, donkeys, large dogs, and barn cats outside Williamston on his family’s land. He also served on the Williamstown Township Advisory Council and the Zoning Board of Appeals, eventually filling a term on a local board around the year 2000. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Valle Taylor. He was survived by his beloved wife, Beverly Larsen Hoag; his son, Jeff (Lauren) Larsen; and his son-in-law, Mark Taylor, as well as grandchildren Jesseca Taylor Johnson (Nate), Benjamin Taylor (Michelle Sullivan), and Clare Larsen, and great grandchildren Davis, Luke and Sullivan Johnson. A graveside service was held on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at Oakwood Cemetery in Eaton Rapids. Those wishing to share memories or offer online condolences may visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com