Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Dick Wagner
1942 - 2014
Dick Wagner
1942 - 2014
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1942
DIED
2014
Dick Wagner Obituary
Read what others are saying about Dick Wagner.
Susan Michelson, Wagner's partner in Desert Dreams Productions, said the performer died at Scottsdale Healthcare Shea Medical Center in Arizona. He had been there for three weeks, Michelson said.
Wagner was born on Dec. 14, 1942, and grew up in Michigan. His website said he went on tour with Reed in 1973 and joined Cooper a year later. He co-wrote the Cooper hits "Only Women Bleed," ''You and Me" and "I Never Cry." He also worked as Cooper's musical director.
Wagner's website said the guitarist had many health issues, surviving two heart attacks, a stroke, a paralyzed left arm, kidney failure and diabetes.
"Dick had a huge heart, which is perhaps why it gave him so much trouble, it w as simply too full of love, of music and life," Wagner's family and Desert Dreams said in a joint statement. "His creativity and passion will live on forever in the legacy he has left for us, in his music and his words. We have so much of him to celebrate."
Wagner formed the band The Bossmen in Michigan, but had his first real taste of success came with the band The Frost, whose albums placed on the Billboard charts.
He then moved to New York and formed Ursa Major, a short-lived band that included Wagner on guitar and Billy Joel on keyboard. Wagner's website said drama in "Billy's personal life intervened and he left the band."
Wagner eventually relocated to Phoenix and started Desert Dreams in 2005 with Michelson, whom he met in the late 1970s when working with Cooper.
Wagner is survived by his daughter, Jasmine Dreame Wagner, and his sons, Robert Wagner and Mark Schuknecht. A memorial in Michigan is being planned, Michelson said.
___
MESFIN FEKADU, AP Music Writer
Copyright © 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed..
77 Entries
Greg Crawford
April 1, 2023
I was an 18 year old lead guitar player in a band named Tramp. We backed up Dick Wagner and the frost at The Crazy Horse. We had converted a school bus into a painted black band bus. I thought he was the best guitarist I´ve ever seen. During a break Dick came into our bus and we talked guitar, I´ll never forget it. Thanks Dick.
Clemen
February 11, 2015
My condolences to Robert Wagner and his family.
I am very sad to hear of Mr Wagner's passing.
I had the honor of knowing him and being his apartment manager where his sons lived at the time, in San Antonio, Texas.
I will never forget that awesome smile and the laughs we shared .
RIP Mr Wagner.
-Clemen ( San Antonio, Texas)
Al Picarelli
October 26, 2014
My condolences to the entire music world for the passing of Dick Wagner, especially to his wonderful friend and Dessert Dream partner, Susan Michelson.
How you can show support
Eleni Rose
October 6, 2014
My beloved friend, I'm so grateful for the times we shared on the road with John Bradshaw, I'm so grateful that you were able to share "Remember the Child" with thousands of people at his workshops. It is truly your greatest legacy. I love you, I will always miss you. God keep you in His loving Arms.
Ronnie Moses
September 21, 2014
It was such an honor to e able to play on stage with you in the late sixties and something that I will always remember I'm sure that one day we will be playing again in Heaven, God Bless you for all the wonderful years.
Geri Kelly
August 19, 2014
What a privelege to see Dick after 50 years in Owosso. He was amazing and all of those playing or singing were extraordinary. His talent never ceased and I am sure he is serenading in heaven. ??
Rest in peace!
Enzo Giobbe
August 19, 2014
I was so honored to know and work with Dick Wagner. He was a great musician, humanitarian, and friend.
Scottie Briggs
August 18, 2014
You left your mark and left the world a better place with love and music. Carry on Maestro let heaven enjoy you now.
Kenzie Kellerman
August 18, 2014
Dick was so very talented it was a honor to perform with him at the hydrocephalus event and just to have him tell me how talented he thought I was meant the world to me coming from him he was a gift to everyone around him the world truly lost a great person and entertainer.
September 2013 at Sunset Studios Hollywood CA
Laurie Beebe Lewis
August 18, 2014
I will always be grateful to you for the inspiration you gave me when I was a young fledgling musician and throughout our years of friendship. There are no words to express the loss I feel knowing you are no longer here. THANKYOU for your friendship, encouragement, wonderful conversations, believing in me, allowing me to be a part of the St Jude project, sharing your songs, listening to my songs, and being a true friend. I will always remember your gentle soul and genuine heart. All my thoughts and prayers to family and friends during this time of mourning.
Bobby Reyes
August 17, 2014
I played on the same bill at the original Lone Star Cafe with Dick Wagner's band around 1989. I had never met him before and didn't know much about him except that he wrote and played with Alice cooper. After speaking with him that evening I truly liked him. He was a nice person and down to earth. After watching him play I realized how talented he was. His passing is a great loss.
Neita Chamberlin
August 14, 2014
I met Dick Wagner (and the Frost) in Kalamazoo, MI at the Crazy Horse, where they were HUGE favorites. Even back then, in the 1960's, the musical and lyrical genius of Dick Wagner was very evident. My friends and I would sit at a front table, and gab with the band between sets, and they were all friendly, sweet, very humble and VERY funny. Dick, thank you for making the music my young life was shaped around, and for letting me realize just how vital GOOD music, singing and playing are to the human mind and soul. You enriched me. You befriended me. And most of all, when I emailed you just 4 years ago, you remembered me! What a great heart you had. What a HUGE talent. If anybody belongs in the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame, it is you. Go with God, and sing your huge gentle heart out for Him now, and rest sweetly. I still play your albums, still sing along, and inside my heart and mind, I still find myself hearing it all while sitting cross-legged on the floor at the Crazy Horse, sipping tepid cokes and waiting to crack more jokes with the band. I didn't listen to your music, Dick, I LIVED your music. Because of people like you who encouraged me, I sing solos at church, have recorded a little here and there, and have a love of music and song that is a HUGE part of who I am. Thank you. A million times over, thank you.
August 9, 2014
May the Beautiful memories of your loved one provide solace and strength to you and your family . May you also find comfort in God's promise of life without end in Paradise. Matthew 5:5, Acts 25:15
Patty Walters
August 8, 2014
I had the great privilege of seeing Dick Wagner play at Bojangles and the Armory in Alpena, MI in 1974. With his former Frost band members; Dick Wagner, Donny Hartmann and Bobby Riggs playing Sweet Jane to this day remains my favorite. May God Bless and keep you Dick. Bravo from the girl in the front row. You and The Frost played the music of my happiest memories, ill remember you forever.
Darryl Pountain
August 7, 2014
I got to see Dick wagner and the Frost twice. The first time I was 16 years old .The band left along lasting impression on me. Later in life I saw them again at the State Theatre in Kalamazoo, Michigan where I live. I got to meet Dick and Donnie Hartman. I took a pickguard off my Les Paul and they were kind enough to autograph it for me. It is my prize. I was heartbroken to hear of Dicks passing ,but his memories will be with me forever.
God rest your soul my friend xoxoxo
Teresa Bianco
August 7, 2014
You were a gift to many especially in our lives. Thank you for your wonderful productions of my ex's writings and Thank you for you sheer joy & kindness! You will be greatly missed my friend. Will always love you.
Pat McCoy
August 7, 2014
I met Dick, back in 1992, at a John Bradshaw workshop. At the time, I had no idea who he was and he was such a humble human being. I learned so much from him and I'm hoping to find a way to pay it forward. There will never be another like him and he is sorely missed. Rest in Peace, my brother, rest in peace.
Cathy Conklin
August 7, 2014
I grew up in Michigan listening to Dick Wagner and the Frost. My heart goes out to his family. Rest in Peace Dick and thank you for some great music and memories of my youth. Thank you.
tom sailer
August 7, 2014
tom sylow former guitarist with johhnny green and the greenmen god bless you dick wangner wish i could have got to play with you on stage but guess i'll to play with you in heaven johnny spoke so high about you that you were not just a great guitarist you were a great person
Mark & Patti Brooks
August 6, 2014
RIP Dick. We will miss you. Our sincere sympathy to all the family.
Donald Brown
August 6, 2014
Thanks for all the music. The world would not have been the same without you.
Art Hauffe
August 6, 2014
Thank you for being one of those people who make a difference in someone's life..cause you made a difference in mine...Dick you were a great man..thank you for everything. ..RIP...Art Hauffe. THE CHERRY SLUSH. ..
Bob A.
August 6, 2014
The Frost were my favorite local group in the late sixties and I followed your career ever since! Thanks for providing a good part of the soundtrack of my youth!
David Eckler
August 6, 2014
Dick Wagner inspired more musicians than he could ever imagine. His openness and accessibility to us young pups in the '60s allowed aspiring rockers to dream big. Our loss is Rock and Roll Heaven's gain, but he lives on through his legacy in music and as a human being. Play on!
Kathy Hardy
August 6, 2014
My Dearest Richard. You lived hard, played hard, loved hard and made dreams come true. Thank you for having me as part of WMG/Down Town Digital Studios. I was honored to be your personal assistant. But more than that ..your friend. You were always humble , loved life and as we all know, you lived life to the fullest. A great creation of God! We all thank you for sharing you life with us. As always...I look forward to seeing you...this time with our creator. My prayers go out to your family and loved ones. Love you Robert and Mark! Two of the blessings your Dad..Dick Wagner , brought into my life.
mark zucker
August 6, 2014
Thanks for All the great Music from The Frost days(whom I loved seeing several times back then) Until Your current,2014 release, Your Music will Live on, RIP ! Mark Zucker (West Bloomfield,Mi.)
barson
August 6, 2014
He was and will always be a major early inspiration back when we were young and beautiful! Still playing for you, too, Maestro!
Norman Reece
August 6, 2014
The most awesome lead ever on " sweet jane" . Been listening to dick since 1967 at the grande ballroom. Just the best. Will be missed.
John Tunis
August 6, 2014
Thanks Maestro !
Guy
August 6, 2014
So long Dick, and thanks for the songs and solos.
Dean H. Strong
August 6, 2014
You were one of the best. You will be missed!!!
James Klomparens
August 6, 2014
I'll miss you Dick. We first met when I was very young and your kindness impressed me in that you took time to answer my questions. Later you co wrote and produced music for a band I was with. Recently you inspired me to give to help people in need and you helped me with a benefit concert. Thank you for being my friend. You changed the world.
Mark Johns
August 5, 2014
Through his music, Dick greatly influenced my life back in 1969. Major life changing events occurred. Thanks, Dick!
Sue Anderson
August 5, 2014
Rest In Sweet Peace Maestro. A gig only you could play here on Earth...As you turned into pure love and slipped in to the arms of Jesus...we will feel the loss for all of our eternity. Bravo and Farewell.
Shelly Ferrell
August 5, 2014
A gifted artist and wonderful friend. His obvious accomplishments are eclipsed by his charitable work and his mentoring of so many musicians over the years.
Albert Garcia
August 5, 2014
He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and the world of music."Rest In Peace Maestro"
David Asher
August 5, 2014
Dick Wagner was a guitar player like few others, and he had the resume to go with it. Songwriter, Producer, and a musician's musician. He truly was the Maestro of Rock. With Richard, still waters ran deep. I'm honored that he blessed us with one of his final recordings. THE PROCESS family sends our heartfelt condolences to his family and the rest of the Desert Dreams Family, our hearts are with you.
August 5, 2014
Got to meet him in 2013. An incredible musician and one of the finest human beings I have ever met!
August 5, 2014
I'm glad I had the chance to meet you just a short time ago... May you rest in peace.
God Bless you!
Georgeanna & Ava
Royal Oak, Mi
BRUCE BEAN
August 5, 2014
A true gentleman and great musician and songwriter. Dick will be missed by all who enjoyed the man and his music.. RIP Maestro!
Carol & Roger Bauer
August 5, 2014
Your presence will remain in our hearts forever ... "Rock & Roll Music, Rock & Roll Music, Music ..." RIP Maestro. <3
Larry Trezil
August 5, 2014
The rock & roll community has lost a true great. His catalog of work speaks for itself. Rest in peace Maestro.
David Matteson
August 5, 2014
Dick created some of the very best music of our time...My condolences to the family...this is a huge Loss...So proud to call Dick My Friend!!!!...Peace...Whaler
mario barricella
August 5, 2014
ciao, forever with us.
mario barricella, italy
Jim Carmody
August 5, 2014
So proud I was involved in organizing Dicks last concert in owosso mi. june 29th. I am gonna miss this man very much.
Sharon Blake
August 4, 2014
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Scott Chamberland
August 4, 2014
Rest in Peace
Daniel
August 4, 2014
My sympathies to the family of Mr. Wagner. May loving memories warm your heart and may God comfort you in your time of loss.
John Krolik
August 3, 2014
The music of the Frost told us anything was possible.
Allan Crummett
August 3, 2014
An astute, skilled and tasteful musician! I have been a fan for decades and you moved my heart by your chops. We grew up with the Frost and the Michigan rock scene. In those days there was nothing like it(Bob Seeger, Ted Nugent, Alice Cooper, Grand Funk Railroad, SRC, etc. Dick was highly respected and he was one of the greats in the world. Thanks Dick for making my life more tasty and enjoyable. God's peace to family and friends who mourn this wonderful talent.
John Bellas
August 2, 2014
My deepest sympathy to the Wagner family. After following Dick's career for years I had the opportunity to meet him at the rock & roll hall of fame and at a show in the Detroit area. He was very friendly and went out of his way to accommodate his fans He will be sadly missed. May his memory be eternal.
DM
August 2, 2014
To the family - Let your petitions be made known to God by means of prayer and the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds.
Phil Young
August 2, 2014
First of all my prayers and thoughts go out to the family. Dick help me write a song about the babies in the Neonatal Unit of Saginaw General Hospital. We co-wrote a song called "The Little Angel Song". He produced and sang the song on the CD. He was truly a talented and gifted musician.
Richard Van Deusen
August 2, 2014
Goodbye from a friend and classmate at WTHS
Solomon Y
August 2, 2014
I`m sure Mr.Wagner was a good man. As a musician, I have a deep respect for anyone who also enjoys playing music.(John 5:25,28,29
Markisa
August 2, 2014
Dear family and friends,
May the God of comfort be with you at this time. As we continue on, may we look to a time when no one will say i am sick. (Is. 33:24)
Cooper in Concert Bay City, MI
August 1, 2014
Goodbye to a powerful musical genius from Michigan. Grew up In Saginaw knowing who he was and always had the greatest respect for him.
R.M.Neymeiyer Michigan
Steven page
August 1, 2014
I'm sure he's rocking in heaven with all the other great legends. R.i.p. My friend
BRUCE K
August 1, 2014
THE "BATTLE OF THE BANDS" AT THE ROLL AIR RINK IN BAY CITY WERE THE BEST WHEN "THE BOSSMAN" PLAYED THERE
M D
August 1, 2014
Farewell Mystery Man. Thanks for all those Grande/ Eastown memories.
TRIAD / MC
David J Bhaltazhar Esq
August 1, 2014
Farewell
Suzanne Goodman
August 1, 2014
My love goes out to Dick's sons and his daughter,his sisters and his dad.We can only hold on to the wonderful memories, and all the pain will turn to love.
Dick,Thank you for letting us join the ride. I will miss watching you nap on the couch as the band takes a break from rehearsal, I miss your wry smile, I miss Suzy's laughter at my desk. It was all a lot of hard work, but I would do it all again in a heartbeat.I hope there was a glass of patron waiting because you played real good. I hope you'll let me be your merchandising manager when I get up there too.
With a big hug, good bye
The other Sioux
Jane Dowling
August 1, 2014
Thank you for your music ~ God bless you and your loved ones.
Robert Rast
August 1, 2014
Dick..You were my musical mentor.You will be dearly missed.You have touched and inspired so many of us in the entertainment business that your legacy will live on forever.God Bless the Wagner Family.
Althea
August 1, 2014
My deepest sympathy to all. May God wipe every tear from your eyes.
Rev. 21:3-4
August 1, 2014
The loss of someone so close is difficult to bear. We share your grief.
Billy Noble
August 1, 2014
Thank you for your generous contribution to my happiness while growing up and even still to this day. Your music will live on forever. May you rest in peace.
Jeff & Lubka H.
July 31, 2014
God Bless you Dick!
Jeff H.
July 31, 2014
Keep rocking,always. God Bless You!!!
Jeff & Lubka
michelle plakas-kaiser
July 31, 2014
rip
July 31, 2014
So sorry for yor loss. He will be missed but not forgotten. (Malachi 3:16)
July 31, 2014
May the Almighty God of comfort be with family,friends and fans at this time of deep sorrow. He want all to draw close to Him for support and strength. God love you.
L. Barresi
July 31, 2014
You will be missed, Rock On my friend.
Trina
July 31, 2014
DS
July 31, 2014
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Matt
July 31, 2014
And if my voice
Starts suddenly shaking
Don't be confused anymore
It's just the sound of my heart breaking
Ship to shore...
Sail on my friend...thank you for the music, memories and friendship.
Showing 1 - 77 of 77 results
Make a Donation
in Dick Wagner's name
How to support Dick's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Dick Wagner's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored