Remembering Whitey

A tribute to Dad

This area community mourns the loss of Whitey Hagen, a man whose dedication and kindness shaped the annual cancer auction for decades. This year marks the first time the beloved event was held without his guiding presence.

 

From Humble Beginnings: The Eddie's Cancer Auction

Whitey Hagen’s commitment to fighting cancer began long before the Geneva Cancer Auction existed. It all started at Eddie's Bar in Albert Lea during a fierce winter storm, when a chicken was found running loose outside the bar. Whitey and others braved the weather, caught the chicken, and, unsure of what to do next, decided to auction it off. As the Eagles Cancer telethon played in the background, they choose to donate the proceeds to the telethon.

 

Soon after, a man came into the bar looking for directions. When he got stuck leaving the event, Whitey and his friends helped him out of the snow. Curiously he asked about the chicken and learned of their fundraising efforts. As it turned out, he was a Twins prospect, and he generously donated a baseball or two and a glove to the cause. They auctioned everything, including the shovel used to help the man, raising about $20. With that, the cancer auction tradition was born.

 

The Geneva Cancer Auction: A Lasting Impact.

In 1985, Hank Thompson, owner of Geneva Liquor, approached Whitey and his wife, LaJune, asking them to launch a cancer auction in Geneva. They agreed, and in January of that year, the very first Geneva Cancer Auction was held. Since its inception, the auction has raised an astounding $2,840.00 for Cancer Research.

 

Whitey’s legacy continues through the tireless work of volunteers, bidders, and donors who have supported the many auctions through the years. He was known for his many catchphrases during the auction, but the favorite among them was “Now that’s fighting Cancer folks!”

 

Though his absence will be deeply felt, the Geneva Cancer Auction will press on in his honor, united in the hope of finding a cure and carrying forward the spirit of generosity that Whitey Inspired.

 

In Memory of Whitey Hagen 

THE MAN, THE MYH, THE LEGEND

June 15, 1932 – February 14, 2026