Dr. Marvin Wagner

1919 - 2018

Wagner, Dr. Marvin Dr. Marvin Wagner passed away on November 22, 2018 at age 99. He joins his parents, Benjamin and Ella (Drotman), his brother Harold, and his beloved dear wife Shirley whom he was married to for 74 years. "Papa Waggie" is survived by his three loving children; Terry (J. Jay) Goodman, Jeffrey (Dyan) Wagner, and Penny (Scott, in memoriam) Anixter; six blessed grandchildren; Steven (Sini) Goodman, Marcie Goodman, Danielle (Timmy) Strauss, Benjamin (Rachel) Wagner, Bari (Cade) Mlodinoff, Joey (Danny) Lirtzman, and ten great-grandchildren. He leaves behind more memories and blessings that one would think imaginable. Dr. Wagner was a pioneer in General & Vascular Surgery, and revolutionized surgical patient outcomes. He served as President of St. Michael Hospital. For more than 60 years, he was a practicing surgeon, professor, researcher, and author. For over six decades, he taught Gross Anatomy to first year medical students at the Medical College of Wisconsin. His tremendously rich legacy of educator, physician, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, military veteran, mentor and friend, is filled with brighter minds, softer hearts, countless lives saved, healthier bodies, millions of smiles, and a family who was privileged and blessed to share this hero of a man with the rest of our community. And, he could dance. Above all, Papa Waggie always acted in a selfless manner, always put family first, and inspired all to live and act with love, dignity, respect, and compassion. Looking back on his own life, there is no doubt he would say: "My cup runneth over." GBWY. The family wishes to extend deepest appreciation and thanks to Dorothy, Kelvin, and Irene, for their tremendous care and dedication. Tributes in his honor can be sent to the Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 West Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, specifically designated to the MCW Endowment for the Marvin Wagner Professorship of Anatomy and Cellular Biology. A private graveside family funeral is scheduled for Sunday, November 25, 2018.