Robert A. Wagner

Bob was a very special person to me and our family. Having known Bob since high school and then through the 60's and K College football Bob befriended and mentored many of us during those special years. He was not only an outstanding journalist but a true gentleman. Bob will be missed greatly and we send our deepest sympathy to his family.

A terrific mentor who was a storehouse of knowledge, a selfless colleague, and a good friend during my part- and full-time years with the Gazette sports department. Thank you, Bob.

Sorry for your loss.someone I am so happy that I knew from church and he will be very well missed by all of us at the church.

Terry and I really enjoyed spending time with Bob before and after hockey games, he was an awesome man and sports writer. We actually named our dog Wags after Bob and he got such a kick out of us doing that.

Bob taught me how to cover and write sports when I was student working for the Western Herald. He showed me how to cover a hockey game, conduct interviews and become a sports writer. I later worked with him for 15 years as a sports stringer at the Gazette. He was a humble, kind and talented man and I thank him for taking a scared college kid and teaching me whatever he could, no questions asked and expecting nothing in return. Thanks, Bob.

Generations of student athletes in West Michigan were inspired by Bob's journalism, integrity and kind counsel; he will be missed, but forever a part of our lives. Sincere condolence to Bob's family.

Bob was such a great conversationalist and I was fortunate to work with him when he covered The Kalamazoo Wings hockey games many years ago. He was such a good person.

I am so grateful for the way Bob lovingly covered our teams when I was in college, and that he came to our reunions later, particularly to celebrate the '62 football team, calling us a "Band of Brothers."

May the wonderful memories sustain all of you through this difficult time. Mr. Wagner was a good neighbor, writer church member and we always remember him smiling. Our parents enjoyed having all of you as neighbors, too.