EDWARD M. WAGNER, age 85, Beloved husband of Kathleen (nee Dugan); devoted father of Elizabeth McDonough (Brian), Michael (Jennifer), and Robert (Christina); cherished grandfather of Gavin, Kate, Lauren, Madeline, Lucy, Rebecca , and Zachary; adored brother of Allan (deceased) (Christine) and James (Jan) (deceased); and Gayle Rush (deceased) (Rick) and Gary Strempel (Beverly); cherished cousin of Emil Pinta; and beloved son of the late Myron and Helen (nee Pinta).
Ed graduated Fairview High School in 1960 where he excelled as a varsity athlete in football, basketball, and track. Ed was also a founding member and lead singer of the King’s Court Trio with Hugh Webber and Bill Smith, a 1950s Doo-wop harmony group.
After attending The Ohio State University, Ed served his country in the U.S. Air Force as a military policeman. While stationed at RAF South Ruislip, outside of London, England, almost appearing in the James Bond film Goldfinger.
After his military service, Ed returned to Cleveland and began a 40-year career with Ford in new car sales and management. He met the love of his life, Kathy Dugan, at Marc Lance Ford, after she purchased a car from a colleague. They were married for 56 years and shared a lifetime of wonderful memories including epic family vacations with their children to Myrtle Beach, National Parks, and World Fairs, and their grandchildren to Pigeon Forge and Hilton Head Island.
After retirement, Ed found what he loved doing most: being a grandpa. Ed’s favorite family members referred to him as Papa, as he faithfully attended fencing, volleyball, dance, theatre, basketball, soccer, and baseball events for his grandchildren providing love and support every step of the way.
Ed’s faith was paramount and was a devout parishioner at St. Angela Merici parish.
Ed leaves behind a legacy unmatched in its humor and kindness. His laugh will no longer be heard in ears, but it echoes forever in hearts. And his lessons endure beyond his passing.
Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and to celebrate the life of Edward at The Corrigan-Craciun Funeral Home, 20820 Lorain Rd., Fairview Park, Ohio, Friday, 4–8 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, September 13, at 11:30 a.m at St. Angela Merici Catholic Church, 20970 Lorain Rd., Fairview Park, Ohio. Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery.
