November 26, 1948 – December 21, 2023
Gerald Lee Wagner, age 75 of Seminole, FL (formerly of Lake Village, Indiana), passed away December 21, 2023. Life partner of the late Martha Ann Catlin Wagner. Proud father of Jerod Lee Wagner, Nathan Lee (Windy) Wagner, Megan (Josh Brugger) Wagner, Margo Wagner, Myia Wagner. Loving grandfather of Dillon Lee Wagner, Colton Lee Wagner, Colin Lee Wagner, Eloise Brugger, Emerson Brugger, Elliot Brugger, Onyx Wagner Neubig, Opal Wagner, Cotton Davis, Coyote Davis. Dear brother to Charles Lee (Debra) Wagner. He is preceded in death by his father, Calvin Wagner; mother, Viola “Vi” Wagner nee Van Vuren; and sister, Patricia “Patty” Wagner.
Jerry was born in South Holland, IL, an homage to his Dutch heritage. He was a ball of fire who hit the ground running and never looked back. He grew up farming, with rich Indiana soil coursing through him and unparalleled strength and pride that he instilled within his children. He spent his early years asking the sun what took so long to rise, working the fields and farmer’s markets of Chicago hours before daylight. He was a self-appointed protector of all. His home was always open to wayfarers and the misfortunate. He loved to travel and was always on the go, often burning rubber in his tracks. He toured the country from coast to coast and back again on eighteen wheels, frequently with his wife and small children, bestowing a life of adventure and fond memories.
He was a lover of nature, avid hunter, exceptional athlete, and fan of all genres of music. An embellished storyteller, he entertained us with unbelievable tales of a lifetime of adventure, uncredited inventions, battles conquered, and death-defying luck. Luck that had to run out eventually, as is the fate of all mankind.
A Christian who rejoiced in the Lord and relished in His strength, forgiveness, and limitless love, Jerry is now basking in His glory beside his best friend, occasional adversary, and bride, Ann.
Words of Wisdom: “Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
Please come celebrate his life and his legacy with us.
Visitation Thursday, December 28, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Smits Funeral Home, 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt. 30 & Pleasant Springs Lane), Dyer IN. Interment Oak Ridge cemetery – Lansing IL
Luncheon to follow at Teible’s Restaurant, Schererville, IN at 2:00 p.m.
