Dr Robert Walter Wagner's Obituary
Dr. Robert Walter Wagner
1926-2024
Remembered for his devotion to family, service to country, love of God and his quick wit, Dr. Robert Walter Wagner passed at home in Tarpon Springs on March 9, 2024. Bob was born on August 22, 1926 to the late Anna and Samuel Wagner. The Gary, Indiana native was the youngest of four boys, of whom 3 shared the same birth month and date. He graduated from Lew Wallace High School where he was the editor of the yearbook and Captain of the ROTC. Following graduation, he served in the Army Air Force during World War II as a B-29 trainee. After the war he graduated from Indiana University School of Dentistry and was a member of Xi Psi Phi, the professional fraternity for dentistry. While in dental school, he met the love of his life, Marcia Dausman on a blind date and the two were married in 1953. They settled in Gary and later Merrillville, Indiana. Dr. Wagner had a private dental practice in the area from 1953-1990.
Upon his retirement Dr. Wagner and Marcia moved to Florida. Once in the sunshine state, Bob, an avid gardener, studied to become a Master Gardener through the University of Florida. He volunteered for many years aiding in community beautification projects. He and his wife were also faithful members of Estero United Methodist Church. Members knew Bob as a dapper dresser who always worshiped in their back-pew seat. Marcia and Bob enjoyed entertaining friends and family, especially at Christmas. Bob along with his family and friends traveled the world and enjoyed photographing their vacations. He was proud to have visited all 7 continents.
Bob loved his family and was preceded in death by his loving wife Marcia in 2020. Survived by his daughter Leslie McMahon and son Todd (Kari) Wagner. He was blessed with three grandchildren Connor McMahon (Brianna) along with Charissa and Bryce Wagner. Don Wagner, a nephew, was like a brother to him. Several other nieces and nephews were important in his life as well. Bob’s brothers, Samuel, Albert and Richard, all preceded him in death.
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