Everyone who knows Victor E. Wanner knows that he was a businessman whose highest priority was the growth of God’s Kingdom. On November 5, 2026, he achieved his life’s goal, was promoted, and transferred to his home with his Heavenly Father. He was warmly welcomed and commended for a job well done, for his good and faithful service.
Vic was born on March 8, 1939, in Brown City, Michigan, to the late Carmen John and Hazel Berniece (Bricker) Wanner. On September 3, 1960, in Brown City, he married Barbara J. Pearson, who survives him. The couple, who have a son and a daughter, lived in various locations as Vic’s promotions and job offers led them further from their modest beginnings.
Vic got his start in his father’s small-town hardware store, Wanner Hardware, where his diligence and attention to detail served both Vic and the business well as the store expanded, eventually encompassing furniture and appliance sales and fuel services. Vic was a natural leader whose organizational skills were of great benefit in progressively higher management positions at Wicks Lumber Corporation, Builders Square, and eventually Health Delivery. His work ethic and his commitment to honest and ethical practices earned him the respect of his subordinates and the admiration of his superiors.
While work was a significant part of his life, Vic also made time to enjoy sports, outdoor activities, and other pastimes. His athletic ability made him a standout in high school. His childhood fascination with electronics led him to an early use of computers and a lifelong involvement in shortwave radio circles. His connection to Michigan’s forests and its shorelines became the springboard for his storied wilderness adventures and the family’s extended boat excursions throughout the Great Lakes.
His career and hobbies were put on hold every summer so he and Barbara could take their family to Brown City Camp. Their cabin sits in the afternoon shadow of the massive tabernacle and puts them in the center of the action. The annual trip provided the opportunity to attend high school reunions, organize family reunions, schedule visits with friends, and enjoy the company of thousands of fellow believers on the camp’s sacred grounds. Vic’s spiritual focus did not end when the tents were packed.
Vic Wanner lived his life as a testimony of his commitment to his beliefs. His actions spoke loudly, but he was also unashamed to proclaim his faith. Even in his weakened state, lying in the hospital, he summoned his strength to ask the attending staff about their walk with God and offered to pray with them.
After retiring, Vic and Barb settled in Willis, Texas, on Lake Conroe, near their daughter, Carol. Throughout those years, Carol was a ready and steady support, traveling with them each summer to Michigan. Then, on Thursday, November 5, Vic slipped the bonds of this earth and joined his Savior.
Vic was predeceased by both his and Barbara’s parents and by his son-in-law, John Robert Bailey, who passed in 2020. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Barbara; his son and daughter-in-law, James and Judy Wanner of Omaha, Nebraska; his daughter, Carol Wanner Bailey, and her husband, Jorge Gomez, of Conroe, Texas; his grandchildren, Megan Koch (Adam) of Omaha, Nebraska, and Joshua Bailey (Ashley) of New Caney, Texas; two great-grandsons, Colton and John; his older brother and sister-in-law, Donald and Irene Wanner of Juno Beach, Florida; his in-laws, Donald and Beverly Durance of Davison, Michigan; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The family plans a small, simple memorial service in Conroe, Texas. A later remembrance is planned in Brown City, Michigan, in July 2027.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Brown City Camp in honor of Vic.
https://browncitycamp.churchcenter.com/giving
Visitation will be held at Cashner Funeral Home, 801 Teas Road, Conroe, TX 77303, US, on November 10, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.
A Celebration of Life will follow at Cashner Funeral Home, 801 Teas Road, Conroe, TX 77303, on November 10, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. with a reception to follow in Cashner Funeral Home's Oak Hall.
