Ernest Chappell Waagner

Ernest Chappell Waagner, known affectionately as "Papa", passed away on October 2, 2025, after having lived an abundant and full life for 97 years.

Ernest was born in Augusta, Georgia, the son of Alfons and Lucille Waagner. He attended Richmond Academy and the University of Georgia. He embodied a work ethic matched by few others. His life reflected a commitment to hard work reflecting not only his character but excellence in all that he did. Almost from infancy, he was busy going, doing, working and improving both his life and the lives of those that surrounded him. As a young boy, he worked in his family's small dairy in Augusta and even worked on the golf carts at the Augusta National Golf Club. He served in the United States Army for two years during the Korean War. He began his professional career at Firestone Tire and Rubber in 1948. He remained at Firestone until his move to Austin in 1970. At that time, he became a member of GCR Firestone Partnership, ultimately becoming the largest independent Firestone dealer in the United States. Known affectionately as "Waag" throughout the company, Ernest's life reflected the embodiment of the Golden Rule-always treating others as he would want to be treated with dignity, respect, and of course, humor.

Ernest embraced all that life had to offer. He lived it with grace, dignity, and a humor from which the greatest comedians could learn. Through his character and even through his humor, he taught his children and grandchildren how to live life more ethically, abundantly, and joyfully. He combined his trademark quotes with a beautiful southern drawl in the activities he loved--life at the lake, fishing, hunting, University of Texas athletics, and the dogs that filled his life with so much joy--"I caught a shaaaark" (even though a minnow), "the secret to a long marriage is getting the last word: yes ma'am".

His professional success was exceeded only by the love of his family, always the first priority of his life. In 1952, he married Edna Wheatley, his wife of almost 73 years. Together, they had two children, David Craig Waagner, M.D., and Diane Waagner McDougal. Ernest was preceded in death by his son and all of his siblings. He is survived by his wife, daughter Diane McDougal (Cary), daughter in law Sherry Waagner, grandchildren Ryan McDougal (Kathleen), Mitchell McDougal (Kelsey), Nick McDougal (Morgan), Will McDougal (Leah), Mark Waagner (Shelby), Megan Gutierrez (Ben), and great grandchildren Virginia McDougal, Emilia Gutierrez, and Broden Waagner.

Services are under the direction of Waldo Funeral Home in Sherman. Graveside services will be held at Austin Memorial Park in Austin, Texas, on October 11 at 11 a.m. Charitable donations may be made to Hillcrest Baptist Church in Austin, or a charity of your choice.