Robert Simon Wagner, 82, of Longmont, died March 8, 2014 at St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood from complications following heart surgery. He was born July 7, 1931 in rural Longmont to Conrad J. and Ammalie (Henkel) Wagner. The family farmed around Longmont, Mead and Platteville throughout Robert's childhood. He attended schools in Platteville, Mead and Johnstown, graduating from Mead High School in 1950. He excelled in academics and sports and was a very proud starting member of the Mead High School, Six-Man State Champion football team in 1949. In July of 1950, Robert contracted polio. The illness claimed the use of his legs and altered the course of the rest of his life. He refocused his career path from farming to business and, with the constant support of his family, earned a bachelors degree in Accounting from the University of Colorado in Boulder in 1957. He was very blessed to have been given the opportunity to prove his talents with several companies and while working at Security Life of Denver, met his future wife, Sylvia, whom he married in 1966. In 1968 he began a career with Ball Corporation and eventually retired from Ball Aerospace in 1996. Together, he and Sylvia raised 4 children from their home in Longmont. He was very proud that he was able to support his children throughout their adolescence and adulthood, enabling them all to attain college degrees. Robert will be fondly remembered for his gentle spirit, his wry sense of humor, brilliant smile and his ability to make anyone feel welcome. He treasured his family, not just his own children, but all members of his extended family. His love of sports continued throughout his life. He also loved his animals, providing a warm lap or a loving pat to all of the family pets. Most important, however, was his faith in God, which never wavered and which assured his reward of a new and whole body upon his departure from this earth. Robert was preceded in death by his parents; his brother David, who served and gave his life in World War II; his brother Daniel; a brother-in-law Henry Pope; and his mother-in-law Gladys Ann Willhite. In addition to Sylvia, Robert is survived by his children; Beth (Rodney) Chapmon of Johnstown, Diane Wagner of Longmont, Barry (Lisa) Wagner of Johnstown and Stacy (Christopher) Severance of Frederick; and grandchildren, Lacii Wagner (and fiance Jade Konitzer) of Colorado Springs, Bennett and Beck Wagner and Nicholas Chapmon of Johnstown and Matthew Severance of Frederick. Survivors also include a brother Elmer (Mariam) of Arvada; two sisters, Pauline Pope of Longmont, Irene (Leonard) Peppler of LaSalle; a sister-in-law Helen Weber; his father-in-law Alvin (Gladys Elaine) Willhite; numerous nieces, nephews and countless extended family. A pubic visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 pm on Thursday, March 13, 2014 at Ahlberg Funeral Chapel, 326 Terry St in Longmont. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, March 14 at Christ Congregational Church, 1240 Francis St in Longmont. Interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery. Lunch will be provided, following the graveside services, at Pacific Event Center, 1330 Main St in Longmont. Memorial contributions can be made to Longmont Humane Society, Christ Congregational Church or EndPolio.org (payable to The Rotary Foundation) in care of Ahlberg Funeral Chapel. Share condolences and memories with the family at www.ahlbergfuneralchapel.com.
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3 Entries
My sympathy to your family. Bob was a great cousin. His smile and friendship will be missed.
Jean Barker
March 12, 2014
Sylvia & Family: Just wanted you to know you are my thoughts & prayers. What a beautiful tribute written for your husband...I'm sorry for your loss. Wishing you all peace & comfort. Karen (at Dr. Brenda's office)
March 11, 2014
I always remember Mr. Wagner with a smile on his face. He was always very welcoming to me and let me tag along on family outings. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Lisa P
March 11, 2014
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