Hagen David Billy

Hagen David Billy, age 41, cherished Grandson, Son, Brother, Uncle, Nephew, Cousin, and Friend, completed his quest in this world on February 2, 2026, in Fairbanks, Alaska. Born on February 23, 1984, in Gallup, New Mexico, he called Iyanbito, New Mexico, home. He was Tsin sikaadnii (Clumped Tree People), born for Táchii'nii (Red Running Into the Water People).

Fiercely independent and unwavering in spirit, he always sensed there was more to discover in life, so he Headed for the Hills. His journey carried him from Iyanbito to attend the Colorado School of Mines in Golden, Colorado; onward to Bellingham, Washington; and ultimately to the Western Front-Alaska-where his adventurous essence felt deeply at home.

An avid snowboarder, lover of the great outdoors, zealous festival seeker, and world traveler, Hagen was always up for the next adventure. He was easily identifiable with his colorful mohawk, his year-round cargo shorts, and his black combat 'Boots'-an outward reflection of the individuality he carried so confidently. Never one to sit behind a desk, he found his calling as a Surveyor Lead with the Alaska Department of Transportation, traveling across the state to collect data for projects and embracing the freedom of the open road.

With his astute wit and caring spirit, he brought laughter and light to those around him. Hagen touched the hearts of those he met and was often described as "a great human." He was working toward becoming a counselor for The Trevor Project, dedicated to reminding others that they belonged and that they were never alone.

When he wasn't surveying or exploring, Hagen could be found immersed in novels and Marvel comics, playing games with the Gum Family, refining his Navajo language, or proudly practicing his sewing and design skills. Of all his pursuits, he found the greatest solace and freedom in his artwork. His use of fractals and negative space was exceptional, and he took great pride in the creativity he shared with others.

Hagen is survived by his adopted brother Tim, sister Natashia, niece Shaolin, mother Grace, stepfather Ronnie, father Delbert, several aunts and uncles, many cousins, his adopted grandparents Ron and Lois, and the Coloraskans-along with countless friends who loved him deeply.

Hagen lives on in our hearts and memories, where we are reminded of him in the dancing aurora borealis and in every radiant sunset. May he rest peacefully in Rehoboth, New Mexico, among the enchanting red rocks, close to his beloved Másání, Ida, who predeceased him in June 2025. Ayóó' ádanííníi' ni.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the National Park Foundation (https://nationalparks.org/honor-remember), learn more about the Trevor Project (https://www.thetrevorproject.org/), or plant a tree (https://plantatree.fs.usda.gov/tree-donation) in Hagen's memory.