Dorene L. Wagner

In loving memory of Dorene Lynn Wagner (Cantalupo), age 68, of Lenox, passed away on August 19, 2025, with her family by her side. She was born on November 19, 1956, in Detroit, to parents, Josephine and James Cantalupo. Dorene married her husband Thomas on March 13, 1976, and they went on to have two children, Steven, 46 and Lisa 41. Dorene and Tom also shared their beloved dog, Peanut. Always surrounded by her loving family, Dorene is survived by her mother Josephine Catlin, three of her brothers, James, Mark and Vincent and her oldest brother Enrico, whose absence was felt deeply after his passing in 2021. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Karin, Michele, Tracey and Sue. Her father James "Moke" and her stepfather John "Jim" both preceded her in death but were very impactful to Dorene's life. In addition, she is survived by her children Steven (girlfriend Mandi) and Lisa (son-in-law Scott and step-granddaughter Lily) and grandpups Riley, Bella and Bailey, along with nieces and nephews and a large extended family that all held a special place in her heart. As a young woman, Dorene was described by her friends and loved ones as someone who lived without a care in the world, enveloped in the innocence of her youth. As she grew in life and in family, she became a protector and support for so many who she loved and who loved her equally. Alongside her husband, they raised their children with the same spirit and love, and she was so very proud of their accomplishments and of the people they became. Dorene enjoyed family get-togethers, playing cards, going to Bingo or the casino and had a love for bowling earlier in life. Every Christmas she'd bake her famous chocolate chip cookies and butter cookies and place them in tins for each of her brothers, children, and for the family party. She was warm and her laugh was one of a kind, just as was her smile; and when she smiled, so did her eyes. She was beautiful in so many ways and stronger than most. Dorene was known for a tidy house, having beautiful flowers blooming around her home and always maintaining an impressive manicure. Most of all, she put a lot of care into everything and everyone that was important to her. A daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, cousin, grandma and friend - she will truly be missed. She will be loved for an eternity and always missed, but she'll live on in the memories and stories her loved ones carry with them. No services have been planned at this time. Arrangements in care of Jowett Funeral Home-New Haven.