On Saturday, April 11, 2020, Carolyn Jane Hagen, loving wife and mother of two children, passed away after her long courageous battle with cancer in her Bronxville home at the age of 59.
Carolyn was born in the spring of 1961 in Huntington, New York to C. Albert “Buddy” and Diana Griffith. She spent her childhood there with her five brothers, John, Mark, Andrew, Peter, and Matthew. After graduating from Cold Spring Harbor High School, Carolyn attended St. Lawrence University where she met her husband of 33 years, Kevin Hagen. The two settled in Bronxville, New York, where she began her career – Carolyn’s, an admirable 30+ year role with KLM Airlines – and raised two wonderful sons, John Alexander (Alex) and Christopher Hagen. Carolyn’s eldest son Alex went on to graduate from her alma mater, St. Lawrence University and her youngest son Christopher graduated from Drexel University this spring.
To know Carolyn was not only to love her, but to admire the way she lived and viewed life. She was the most positive person who always exuded great strength and perseverance despite any challenges that came her way. Her attitude of “when the going gets tough, the tough get going” was balanced with empathy and love; a true fighter, wife and mother mixed into one. Her infectious smile and her kindness to whoever she met left a lasting impression on those around her.
Carolyn has always watched over her loved ones, whether that be from the top row of the bleachers in the hockey rink or from an Adirondack chair perched on the top of the family hill on Long Island. Everyone always quite literally looked up to her. She was the rock.
Carolyn is survived by her husband Kevin and two sons, Alex and Christopher; her mother Diana; her five brothers John (Mary), Mark (Patricia), Andrew (Susan), Peter (Ann Marie) and Matthew (Lisa); her eight nieces and nephews. Carolyn was preceded in death by her father, C. Albert “Buddy” Griffith.
A memorial will take place with family and friends in the coming months. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center’s breast cancer research.
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Ann Marie Griffith says
April 16, 2020 at 2:05 pmAlways optimistic, forever funny and loving to her core. I will miss our long talks most of all. Rest In Peace my darling Cares.
Charles Steffler says
April 16, 2020 at 3:24 pmWas so sorry to hear this very sad news. She was always there for us when ever we needed anything and always took a personal interest in each of her fellow KLMers she will be sorely missed
Charles Steffler IAH says
April 16, 2020 at 3:30 pmSo sorry to hear of Carolyns passing a wonderful friend and always there to help her fellow KLM colleagues thanks Carolyn for all you did for me
The Tysons says
April 16, 2020 at 3:47 pmCaroline will always have a very special place in our hearts. Her family meant everything to her. She treated her colleagues and friends with class and dignity so it was easy to become a friend of Caroline’s. She will have an exceptional place in heaven and will be sorely missed by all those who knew her!
Jeff Metzelaar says
April 16, 2020 at 3:52 pmNot being aware of Carolyn’s health situation, her passing shocked me as even after my retirement we still had frequent contact due to her important knowledgeable of all aspects during my retirement and health insurance changes.
Just want to say that she have always been a VERY welcome colleague also at the time that I managed people who needed all kind of support.
Carolyn was always full of humor and very friendly, she was great as a colleague, but also a very knowledge person who didn’t change her attitude when I needed her after my retirement. The fact that we live pretty serene today I thank to her precious help.
Rest in Peace Carolyn, you’ll be missed…
Vladimir Blazic says
April 16, 2020 at 10:04 pmDearest Carolyn has been a stellar help in all circumstances, no matter who called her she was ready to help. I still remember how she thought me 401k basics when I joined in USA with no experience in retirement savings plans here. I never took it too seriously until she sat me down and said to me like a mother to her son, “Vladimir, this is important that you plan for your future and one day your retirement. You will need it and therefore I need you to start putting money away from day one”. I could still see her smile while trying to pretend to be strict and serious with me 🙂 Carolyn’s smiles on the phone, words of encouragement when the tough times rolled in and joys of celebrating all our personal and KLM wins were immense. I will cherish those moments forever. Carolyn, you will be dearly missed. May you Rest In Peace! Love you forever… ❣️?
Vicky Tiberio says
April 16, 2020 at 4:20 pmCarolyn was one of the sweetest and kindest colleague at KLM. She always went the extra mile and will be genuinely missed. My deepest condolences to her family. Heaven has gained another Angel!!
Gormal Stewart says
April 16, 2020 at 4:25 pmVery sad to hear this. I knew her father many years ago and it seems like yesterday we were at his funeral. To have Carolyn join him is quite a shock. She was so buoyant and always there with a helping hand and will be sorely missed.
Damir Sosic says
April 16, 2020 at 4:33 pmI am heartbroken about Carolyn passing away.
Still remember our conversation about life values, our many blessings during her February, 2018 San Francisco visit.
She was so full of energy, grateful for family and her colleagues and always ready to help in anything.
It’s just body that’s is gone . Her spirit will stay with me and us forever.
Hope many memories will bring comfort to family and friends
Javid Raza says
April 16, 2020 at 4:55 pmSo sad to hear the sad demise of Carolyn. She was caring, helpful and always had a smile on her face. We will miss her ! May her soul rest in PEACE – Amen
Andre Dennert says
April 16, 2020 at 4:58 pmMy deepest condolences to Carolyn’s family on this great loss. She was an exceptional person and a great colleague who will always be remembered with great fondness. Sharing in your sorrow.
Francesca Weinchard says
April 16, 2020 at 4:59 pmCarolyn was one of the strongest person I know. She always had a smile for me and no matter how she felt she always had a positive attitude. We shared many stories and laughter about raising 2 boys. She will be deeply missed. Heaven has gained a special Angel. You will always have a special place in my heart
Robert Frazer says
April 16, 2020 at 5:24 pmDear Carolyn,
You were one of the nicest and most helpful people I met at work. Always eager to help and always answering/getting back with information. I will truly miss you. It was so nice to meet you on your last trip to Atlanta, and I feel honored that I was able to pick up from the airport and spend some time with you at both office locations here. I am grateful for the hug we shared and to have met you that day and spoken to you. I am sure that you are in a much happier place now and with the angels looking at us and smiling and say, ‘it’s ok, it will get better, hang in there!’… I will truly miss you.
May your soul rest in peace and may you enjoy eternity by God’s side…
Love and Hugs,
Robert
Mary Webb says
April 16, 2020 at 6:43 pmI was incredibly sad to hear of Carolyn’s passing. I hope your family knows how important she was to her colleagues at KLM. She took good care of us and our HR will never be the same without her. She was always very helpful on the professional side but more importantly she took the time to care about us personally. We never ended a conversation that she did not check to see how I was doing and ask about my family with a reminder to take care of myself and not work too much. I considered her as a friend. A beautiful soul that I will never forget. Rest in Peace sweet Carolyn.
Carolyn Tisi Traficante says
April 16, 2020 at 9:36 pmCarolyn, you are special! I enjoyed watching the boys hockey games with you. When one of the boys would fall you always say “Woopsie.” Your boys, and Coach Hagen were everything to you. Rest In Peace.
Sandra and Ron Rude says
April 16, 2020 at 7:06 pmOur heartfelt condolences to Kevin, Alex, Chris, and the extended families on both sides. Carolyn was so full of life, strong, beautiful, caring, and giving. She will forever remain in our hearts.
Aynne Pryce says
April 16, 2020 at 7:42 pmMy deepest condolences to your family, Jon and Mary. Too young to pass but she’s resting peacefully now. Warm embraces, Aynne ❤️???
Joe Marino says
April 16, 2020 at 8:36 pmMy deepest condolences to Carolyn’s friends and family.
Carolyn was a warm, loving and caring person, always willing to extend support and guidance to everyone.
Words cannot express my sorrow.
Barbara Angrisano says
April 22, 2020 at 11:33 pmSo sorry to hear of Carolyn’s passing. She was most helpful when her KLM colleagues were in need. She will truly be missed. My heartful condolences to her family and friends. May Carolyn rest in peace.???
Zilda Amentas says
April 16, 2020 at 10:36 pmI was so sorry to hear of Carolyn’s passing. She was a very caring and lovely lady who will be missed! My deepest heartfelt sympathy to her family! May her memory be eternal! ??❤️❤️
DIANE M ELDREDGE says
April 17, 2020 at 8:17 amMy deepest sympathy for the huge loss of dear Carolyn. I knew Carolyn during years working with KLM. Her contagious smile, positive attitude and dedication to helping others made her so truly special. Prayers to all her loved ones. She will be dearly missed.
Edwin Teran says
April 17, 2020 at 9:29 amMy deepest condolences to Carolyn’s friends and family. I’ve known Carolyn for over 20 years working together at KLM and she was always very helpful and always took care of us and our HR needs. You will be missed and KLM has lost a very import person. As per me and my family you will be in our memories. May you be in God’s presence. Thank You.
paula ostuni says
April 17, 2020 at 10:56 amThere are no words to describe how wonderful a close friend and colleague Carolyn was. She was taken away from us way too early. We shared so many memories and I am grateful to have had her in my life. Heaven just welcomed another Angel. I miss her dearly
Dean Berardo says
April 17, 2020 at 11:04 amMy condolences to Kevin and family during this time. Keep comfort in the beautiful things that you shared together.
Sonica Singh says
April 17, 2020 at 11:22 amMy deepest condolences to Carolyn’s family. Shocked to get the news, as only a few weeks ago she was in ATL and she did the round of the office and as always, chatted with everyone. Carolyn was such a warm, loving and caring person, always willing to give guidance and help to everyone. She was so kind and had wise suggestions for ones personal situations… You will be missed … Gone too soon ! Rest in peace Carolyn.
Linda Szczurowski says
April 17, 2020 at 11:58 amI am heart broken for the loss of a wonderful lady, Carolyn Hagen. She always had everyone’s best interest at heart. Her smile was contagious and her personality was always so positive,. We have lost a great one. My condolences to all of your love ones, ,
Judson Seli says
April 17, 2020 at 12:51 pmCarolyn you will be missed. You have done a great job paving the way for Kevin, Alex, and Chris to continue your legacy. Without your guidance I am sure they may have wandered but it is to your credit that they will continue on with you always in their hearts and mind.
God bless you always Carolyn
Barbara Sellers says
April 17, 2020 at 2:49 pmI had the privilege of teaching and coaching Carolyn at Cold Spring Harbor High School. The comments I have read describe the wonderful young girl I knew then. An exceptional athlete, a caring and extraordinary individual….the student you don’t forget. My sincere sympathy to Kevin, DeDe and all her boys.
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Barbara Maier says
April 17, 2020 at 3:52 pmIt was a pleasure knowing and working with Carolyn. She was one of the sweetest people I know. Rest in peace
Bas Gerressen says
April 17, 2020 at 4:09 pmIt was a such a pleasure working with Carolyn. Her dedication, her drive, her strength, her positivity and her super warm character made her a beloved colleague in the Air France KLM family in USA. My deepest sympathy for all the family. We will miss her, rest in peace Carolyn.
Mary Tom says
April 17, 2020 at 5:40 pmMy condolence to the family. We have lost one of the kindest, most helpful and knowledgeable member.
May you rest in peace. Will be missed very much…
God bless
LuAnn Warner-Prokos says
April 17, 2020 at 9:22 pmDear Kevin – our deepest condolences on the passing of Carolyn (Griff to us). I was deeply saddened to hear about her passing. I have such fond memories of our time at SLU together. Loved that “girl”!!! Her intelligence, kindness, sense of humor, gentle nature, inner strength – a most beautiful person inside and out. I am proud to say that I was her pledge “mother” at KDS. I so enjoyed the Christmas cards over the years – her love for you was very evident, as well as for her sons, of whom she was immensely proud. John also has fond memories of Carolyn at SLU and sends his condolences. I know that you and the boys will miss her immensely – but, I also know that you have wonderful memories to help sustain you. We lost an incredible person, but her impact, I truly believe, has been great — she will be remembered by many. xo – LuAnn and John Prokos
Dawn Vande Woude-Carlson says
April 17, 2020 at 11:19 pmCarolyn and I had so many high school memories that I will cherish forever. She was always funny, kind and loyal. She was a talented athlete. Above all, she loved her family. I was shocked to hear of her passing which left a whole in my heart. I’m glad she is not suffering and rejoicing in heaven with her dad. My sincere condolences to her family.
FRANCISCO PEREZ says
April 18, 2020 at 3:27 pmDear Carolyn’s family, pls. receive our deepest condolences, God bless you all and give you peace.
Fran Antolino says
April 19, 2020 at 10:51 amRest In Peace, Carolyn. My deepest condolences and prayers to Carolyn’s family and friends. I had the honor of working with Carolyn for years at KLM. She was an esteemed colleague who was always gracious, helpful, and professional. She will be sorely missed.
Julia Califano says
April 19, 2020 at 5:11 pmCarolyn was truly one of a kind. She was strong and resilient, and fought her battles with positivity and optimism. She was kind, thoughtful, and compassionate about her job and always loved to help people.
I remember walking into Air France-KLM for an interview in June 2018 and meeting Carolyn for the first time. Little did I know that when I took this job working alongside Carolyn in the benefits department, she would become not only my boss, but a true mentor and friend to me. Over the past almost 2 years, Carolyn and I formed such a bond. She was like a second mom to me – always looking out for me, guiding me, and teaching me. We shared many conversations not only about work but about life, our families, and our friends. We also shared many laughs – Carolyn had such a great sense of humor. She knew how to make anyone laugh.
I consider myself extremely lucky to have worked so closely with such an amazing, smart woman, who truly cared about me and my wellbeing. I already miss our daily conversations and phone calls. I will cherish the great memories I have with Carolyn forever. Heaven gained another angel. Rest In Paradise my friend.
Christine Colomban says
April 20, 2020 at 11:33 pmAlthough I only met her in person a few times, I remember Carolyn’s kindness and availability. I was very sad to hear of her passing. May you RIP, condoléances to her family
Lori Burrell says
April 21, 2020 at 10:43 amMy deepest condolences to Carolyn’s entire family at this very sad time. In my 30 years with KLM Canada, our paths crossed regularly and I always appreciated Carolyn’s support, expertise, professionalism and positive spirit. Personally we would talk about her family’s Canadian connection, her boys, hockey – in my opinion, the essence of her happiness. Rest in Peace Carolyn
Susan Mc Killop says
April 21, 2020 at 5:27 pmCarolyn
One of my favorite hockey moms! We traveled together for many of the tournaments. Always a fav was the philly tournaments so we could go to a wawa!
Damn it was so easy to travel with you.
“ you betcha” “ just do what you have to do” some of lines I remember you saying. You laugh was so amazing, brings a smile to my face thinking about it. Remember that time we were working out at avalanche gym and I fell off the treadmill? I swear you wet your pants you laughed so hard! I also remember if you had too much caffeine at a game you were a trip to watch “ John Alex” play. “Whoopsie” you were an amazing, organized, never missed a beat when it came to taking care of everything and everyone! Being in Alaska for a week with you was so much fun and then to boot they won!
You treated my son as one of your own. After they went on to college we could just get together for dinners on our own, I am so going to miss those times. I watched fight a battle, I prayed you would win, such a beautiful friend, I love you so much.
Birgit Breukers says
April 22, 2020 at 3:25 pmCarolyn,
my deepest condolences to your family. Your optimism will be missed, was a such a great pleasure to work with you. Rest in peace dear Carolyn
David L. says
April 23, 2020 at 1:06 pmDear Carolyn,
Thank you for all the help and guidance and thank you above all for always having such a positive spirit.
My deepest sympathies to all loved ones.
Diane Murphy says
April 24, 2020 at 8:48 amMy condolences to Carolyn’s family and friends.
She was a beautiful soul—positive, upbeat and caring-
A pleasure to work with.
Rest in peace dear Carolyn-you will truly be missed
Mr. Richard F. Henrickson Jr says
April 27, 2020 at 8:57 amHaving not know Carolyn, but knowing Riley quite well and understanding that she was a tremendous influence on Riley’s development into the fine and talented young lady that she is, I can only imagine that Carolyn was a unique, nurturing, and inspirational woman who will be missed dearly. My deepest condolences to the Griffith family.
Digna Faber says
July 23, 2020 at 3:06 pmWith my Deepest Sympathy to Carolyn’s family and friends. During the nearly 17.5 years that we worked together, she was a lovely, caring, and hard working colleague who was always ready to support and give guidance. Our organization is not the same without her, and I still cannot fathom that she is no longer with us. Carolyn, I miss you dearly.
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