Marilyn K. Wagner

She attended Our Lady of Lourdes Grade School and graduated from St. Agnes Academy in 1956. Following graduation, she began her career at Wm. H. Block Co. where she worked for several years as a buyer in the women’s clothing department and later in the HR Department.

After marrying William F. Wagner in 1961, Marilyn devoted herself to creating a loving home and raising their four children. Her weekend evenings were often filled with card games and board games of all sorts, playing with her kids, her mom and her sister Betty at the Wagner home.

Marilyn’s life was centered on family, faith, and friendship. She was a constant, loving presence in her children’s lives—volunteering at school and attending every performance, game, and activity they participated in. She ensured that there was always a home-cooked meal on the kitchen table for Bill and the kids which was a cherished daily tradition. Marilyn had an incredibly smart, artistic brain. She could produce a beautiful sketch or doodle on a moment's notice.

A devoted member of St. Luke Catholic Church for many years, Marilyn generously shared her time and talents through numerous ministries and committees. She served on the Parish Council and as President of the Home School Association, always seeking ways to strengthen her parish community. Together, Marilyn and Bill attended a Cursillo retreat which led to their participation in a faith-sharing group for more than two decades, frequently hosting gatherings in their home and fostering meaningful friendships spanning generations.

Marilyn was an enthusiastic sports fan! She rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on her children. From North Willow swim meets and Little League Baseball games to CYO basketball and high school tennis matches, she was their most faithful supporter. Her love of sports continued throughout her life as a devoted fan of the Indiana Pacers and Indianapolis Colts. Marilyn was always eager to discuss the latest game! She also managed the family’s NFL fantasy football league and especially treasured the traditions surrounding the Indianapolis 500, including the annual family race pool—even when luck paired her with Dick Simon.

Marilyn had a remarkable gift for maintaining friendships and making new ones. She delighted in spending time with friends, family, and the many friends of her children and grandchildren. In her later years, she stayed connected through phone calls, text messages, and social media—a testament to her determination and vibrant spirit despite having arthritis and failing eyesight and hearing.

Her beloved husband, Bill, preceded her in death in 2006 after 45 years of marriage.

After moving to Marquette Manor in 2007, Marilyn quickly became an active and valued member of the community. She volunteered in the gift shop and chapel and served on the Resident Council, forming many lasting friendships along the way. Her hospice caregivers from Paradigm Health lovingly cared for her until her passing.

More than anything, Marilyn will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to those she loved, her deep faith, her welcoming spirit, and her ability to make everyone feel like family.

She is preceded in death by her husband Bill and daughter Mary Kay.

Marilyn is survived by her three sons, William (Nikki), Stephen (Courtenay), and Michael; her grandchildren, Abigail Wagner, Caroline Wagner, Billy Wagner, Elizabeth Wagner, Jake Wagner (Alyssa), Weston Wagner (Valentina), Regan Clark (Spencer), Mia Wagner, Elise Wagner, Audrey Wagner, Juliet Wagner, and Tyler Wagner; and her great-grandchildren, Noelle Wagner and Marcel Wagner.

A funeral mass will be held for Marilyn at Saint Luke Catholic Church on June 24, 2026 at 11:30 AM, with a calling preceding the mass at 10:30 AM. Memorial donations can be made to Little Sisters of the Poor, Marquette Manor Foundation, or Saint Luke Catholic Church.