Albert Wagner

Albert J Wagner and Sons was, hands down, the finest architectural roofing and sheet metal shop in all of the Chicago area, quite possibly the whole country. When you were an employee of Al, you were treated like a family member. We were a small group of highly skilled metal workers, if we didn't have all the skills required when we started, we most certainly did in a short period of time.
Our work appeared regularly in newspapers and high end magazines such as Architectural Digest and...

I met Al Wagner about 1985 when I answered an ad in the newspaper for a sheet metal journeyman. In the world of sheet metal workers there are 2 types, ventilation, and architectural. I was for the most part a vent guy. I had done one copper roof previously and never done any kind of architectural roofs, but I was willing to learn and I did know how to solder gutters.
When you worked for Al, he wasn't just the boss, he was your 2nd father, dutch uncle, big brother, best friend, and...

I felt very blessed to know Mr. Wagner always seemed to be very nice always a great person to talk to when I saw him over the years at Jen and Neils house Our Sincerest condolences to the whole Wagner family Love Christine James Mark and Kevin

For many years, I spoke to “Chief” just about every workday. Some conversations were short, only a couple of words, but many were long, lasting many minutes. Over the years, those covered all topics imaginable – current events, personal relationships, society's ills, my work, his work, my family, his family, etc. But all were enjoyable. Frequently, however this habit began; one of us would end our conversations with “Well, this has been a slice (of life).” The other would reply “Always...

We were so saddened to hear our friend and former neighbor had passed away. What will be missed, and now a memory to enjoy, is that of Al's kindness, wit and infectious smile. We hope the Wagner family takes comfort knowing his presence will still be felt by the legacy he leaves behind. His contribution to preserving internationally known cultural icons of Chicago will be appreciated and admired for generations, not only by those of us who knew him but also by the friends he never...

To the Wagner family: Our sincerest condolences to you all. I was fortunate to meet Albert a couple of times and will always remember his genial and warm nature. For me, the building on that corner of Clark Street and Racine is a Chicago landmark; the Wagners' shop. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. John Fagiolo and Catherine Ramsden.

Offering our deepest sympathies during this time.