Hagadone established more than two dozen businesses, largely with real estate and tourism ties. He was credited with building up Coeur d'Alene, bringing in national retailers and developing waterfront projects as well as a ski resort.
Hagadone was a former city councilman, county commissioner, and chairman of the Idaho Republican Party. In addition to the Press, he also owned Hagadone Hospitality, which operates numerous local hotels, restaurants and retail shops in Coeur d'Alene.
Life and career
Hagadone was born on October 23, 1931, in Moscow, Idaho, the son of a schoolteacher mother and a father who was a lumberjack and farmer. He grew up in nearby Potlatch, Idaho and graduated from high school there.
Hagadone married his high school sweetheart, Lola. The couple had five children together.
Hagadone began his business career in the timber industry. He eventually expanded his interests to include real estate, hospitality and tourism. In the 1960s, Hagadone acquired the Coeur d'Alene Press, which he owned until his death.
Hagadone was also active in politics. He served as a city councilman in Coeur d'Alene, a county commissioner for Kootenai County and chairman of the Idaho Republican Party.
In 2011, Hagadone was inducted into the Idaho Hall of Fame.
Hagadone died on December 18, 2021, at the age of 90.
Philanthropy
In addition to his business and political activities, Hagadone was also a philanthropist. He donated millions of dollars to various charitable organizations, including the Hagadone Foundation, which he established in 1993. The foundation supports a variety of causes, including education, healthcare and the arts.
Hagadone also donated land for the construction of the North Idaho College Hagadone Center, a performing arts and education facility in Coeur d'Alene.
Legacy
Duane Hagadone is remembered as a successful businessman, civic leader and philanthropist who made a significant impact on the development of Coeur d'Alene and the state of Idaho.