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About
Mary Wagner Obituary
Mary was born August 1, 1950 in Norfolk, Nebraska. After graduating high school, she attended Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas before going on to earn her PhD in Political Science at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.
Mary and Rick were married April 19, 1980 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. They began their marriage living in a log cabin in Skylonda, California, where they welcomed daughter Kate in 1982, and daughter Joy in 1984. The family moved to Palo Alto, California in 1985, living in the house that remains their family home to this day.
Mary began her hugely successful career at SRI International in 1980. Details on her work and professional accomplishments can be found here:
https://www.sri.com/education-learning/recognizing-the-life-and-work-of-mary-wagner/
Mary's foundations were grounded in her family, her Episcopalian faith, her research work, and being a force for good in the world. She loved making quilts for family, friends, and charitable organizations. She spent Sundays at the Church of the Epiphany, often giving thoughtful and uplifting sermons to the congregation. She cherished Christmas celebrations with her family and friends, and always made it the most special time of year. She was a lifelong swimmer, from lifeguarding at the pool in her teens to enjoying morning swims in the warm waters of Kalapaki Bay on vacations to Kauai.
Mary was dearly loved, and is missed by everyone whose life she touched.
A memorial service will be held on March 1, 2025 at 2:00pm, followed by a reception in the church's parish hall:
Episcopal Church of the Epiphany
1839 Arroyo Ave
San Carlos, CA 94070
In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary's name can be made to the following organizations:
Alzheimer's Association: www.alz.org
The Church of the Epiphany: www.epiphanysancarlos.org
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4 Entries
Kathy Valdes
February 25, 2025
I was in awe of Mary´s professional abilities, she was absolutely brilliant, but what I remember most fondly was when I joined Mary and others around the daily lunch table. It was an honor to work with her but a pleasure to sit and comfortably chat and get to know each other, talking about our families, our travels, and the events of the day.
I am so glad that outside of work Mary had the opportunity to explore quilting. Not long after I left SRI I contacted her with a vague idea of a quilt that I wanted to commission, she designed and created a beautiful quilt that exceeded my imagination. I have treasured it and think of her every time I wrap myself up in her beautiful quilt. It is nice to think that she had that creative outlet in addition to her outstanding professional achievements.She had many dimensions to her life with her family, church, and professional career, but I like to think of her exploring fabrics, designs, and colors and losing herself in their beauty.
Donna Spiker
February 24, 2025
A truly classy loving lady! She was a great leader in our Center at SRI where she supported the positive growth of every employee.
Donna Spiker
Le Perez
February 19, 2025
Gone but not forgotten. I will always remember your kind generous words and loving smile.
Pat Byers
February 19, 2025
Mary was one of the people I most enjoyed working with at SRI. She was kind, considerate and a role model for many.
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