Christopher R. Hager OBITUARY

Christopher R. Hager OBITUARY

With great sorrow, we announce the loss of Chris Hager on May 16, 2025. Chris touched the hearts of many people during his 67 years, from his rock-n-roll musician friends and fans to his extended family and business colleagues. He was multi-talented, with careers as a rock guitarist, computer network business owner, song writer, and most recently as a sober coach.

Chris was born in San Diego on January 18, 1958 to Eugene “Randy” Hager and Pauline Hager. Chris and family moved to New Jersey in 1970, then to South Carolina before returning to San Diego in 1975. Chris also lived for many years in Los Angeles and for a period of time in Portland, Oregon. Along the way, he made lifelong friends who shaped his life and careers and remained loyal through thick and thin.

Chris’ love of music started at an early age. He picked up the guitar in his early teens while living in Aiken, South Carolina and with friends, started playing in garage bands. Upon returning to San Diego, his love of rock music and playing guitar continued and became a lifelong calling. Friends became bandmates, and Chris co-founded and played in many bands over the years, including Mickey Ratt, which later became the recording legend RATT. In 1981, Chris and the band moved to the epicenter of the rock music scene, L.A. That year he left RATT to Rough Cutt, recording and touring with them through the 1980s and early 1990s. Chris also played with other bands including Sarge, Woop and the Count, and Rough Riot. In later years, Chris also played gigs with Stephen Pearcy’s Voice of Ratt. He continued composing and producing music, as well as collaborating on musical projects with his musician friends until the end.

Chris worked on other endeavors as well. His love of computers and technology led to his founding a computer network business known as PCsmart Business Networks which he operated for many years in San Diego. Most recently, his love of helping others led him to take up studies to become certified as a sober coach.

To Chris’ family, he was a loving and devoted son, uncle and brother, and a man who ed every birthday, anniversary and was there for family whenever needed. He camped, fished and travelled with his brother Barry and nephew Dylan, and attended countless family gatherings and dinners over the years. Most recently, Chris was helping to care for his aging parents in San Diego. He was planning a return to Los Angeles at the time of his untimely ing.

Chris loved movies, bad puns, and talking philosophy and politics. He adored his nephews, had an eye for style, and a smile that could light up a room. He will be sorely missed. He is survived by his father, Randy, his brother, Barry (Hilary), nephews Stephen and Dylan, and Cousin George (Lucia). He was recently preceded in death by his beloved mother, Pauline.

Interment will be with El Camino Memorial – Sorrento Valley, in San Diego, CA. A celebration of life and musical tribute will be held in Los Angeles on a future date, to be determined. Add a memory or share condolences on Chris’ memorial page at: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/12386708