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BORN
1951
DIED
2014
James WAGNER Obituary
11-28-1951 - 4-5-2014
What an amazing pianist! James Wagner left a musical legacy that many seniors across the U. S. and Canada continue to enjoy through Joy and Action, a program he and best friend Linda Wilson created. Austinites may remember James for his talents at Esther's Follies and many other local venues. His piano students will always value having learned from this talented man. James loved Austin and playing with the musical family and friends he found here. Always community-minded, he served as president of the University Area Kiwanis Club.
For many renditions of 'Somewhere Over The Rainbow' and marathon Scrabble games accompanied by Klondike bars, he will always have a very special place in our memories.
Linda would like to thank the many caring home healthcare workers and staff at Christopher House who helped ease James's passing.
James is survived by his sister, Ruth Wagner of Virginia, and brother, Philip Wells of New Mexico. Details regarding a Celebration of Life gathering will be announced later.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James WAGNER
Kate Lyon
March 13, 2021
I am so sad to learn of the passing of James. He and I were pals, many decades ago in Austin. What a kind soul and a wonderful musician. I always loved hearing him play “Sweat Leukemia.” I hope that his passing was easy. My heart aches to learn this sad news.
Aaron Arnold
April 2, 2019
Five years later and the impact on the world around James remains very strong and very positive.
William Gebauer
April 29, 2014
James was a very good friend, more like family. It was always a fun time just sitting around talking with him or hearing his and linda's stories. I am glad i was able to be a part of his life and he a part of mine. I will never forget him. love you and miss you grandpa, but I know you are in a better place now with no pain.
Elizabeth Lindemann
April 22, 2014
James you were a fun loving and gentle soul. Always so much fun to be around. You always stepped up when needed with you Let's Do It attitude. You acute attention to detail and a passionate piano player. A visionary. Play on our dear friend.
De Lewellen
April 21, 2014
My friend James was a wonderful person. He had a way of putting
people at ease. His music and sense of humor was unforgettable. James and Linda put so much joy in seniors lives with their Joy In Action program. We will miss him so very much.
Judy & Randell Young
April 16, 2014
So sorry for your loss, Linda and Beth. Love you both. Hugs.
April 11, 2014
Uncle James was my aunts long time companion. He played at my wedding 15 years ago. Everyone agreed that his music was the icing on the cake.
Theresa Gebauer
April 11, 2014
James was like a granfather to me and even more to my brother. He will be greatly missed. His music made me smile like no other. He was the best!
James's birthday 2012
Beth Wilson
April 10, 2014
Christmas 2011
Beth Wilson
April 10, 2014
James Cockrum
April 9, 2014
I was a good friend of Jim when we both belonged to The University Club and later enjoyed jiw playing at other clubs
Aaron Arnold
April 9, 2014
James Wagner was impossible to dislike as a pianist and as a human being. Those who knew him are fortunate, as was he to live such an ideal life.
Eric Thompson
April 9, 2014
James and his music gave the gift of music to our "Senior Saints" in Greenville South Carolina. He left a lasting impression on me when I met Linda and James about 14 years ago at the SCAPA conference. I knew then their passion for what they did could spark many a hand bell choir, and that is exactly what happened with us. We have a performance tomorrow, and we fittingly dedicate it to James. Thank you Lord for loaning us James for a while.
Susan Copeland
April 8, 2014
James touched many lives and hearts. His life mattered and he made a difference. He will be missed for a very long time by many and never forgotten.
Phalen Family
April 8, 2014
James was a great guy and his music was tops. We will miss him and his tunes.
Mary lou &Tony
April 8, 2014
James has left us with so many memories, smiles and laughter.A talent compared to no other.Our heart goes out to Linda, Beth, Phillip, Ruth. and to the many friends who loved him.
Debbie Wilder
April 8, 2014
Debbie Wilder
April 8, 2014
Orange Jefferson
April 8, 2014
Always there and good as gold, peace be with you my friend, and he loved hat too!
Sparkle Rainbow Guardian Angel
Susan Heffron Hajec
April 8, 2014
I am lending Amy's "Sparkle Rainbow" Guardian Angel to James and Linda for awhile.
Susan Heffron Hajec
April 8, 2014
Rainbow experiences are fun time with my granddaughter and me. May your rainbows be filled with music, laughter, love and giggles. They're the best.
Kim Navarre
April 8, 2014
I never met James in person but I always heard great things about him from Linda and Beth. My condolences to his family and friends.
James playing us some Christmas tunes in 2011
Beth Wilson
April 8, 2014
April 8, 2014
James had an amazing talent that he shared with people all over the country with his dear friend and partner Linda Wilson. He had an uncanny ability to relate to people of any age .Thank you for all the great memories.rest in peace.Doreen and John
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