Gary Lyle Wagner

Gary Lyle Wagner, 81, passed away unexpectedly and peacefully on July 6, 2025, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Lafayette, Colorado. Born on April 1, 1944, in Holdrege, Nebraska, Gary lived a life marked by faith, hard work, and generosity.

From an early age, Gary was no stranger to responsibility. When his family moved to Colorado during his freshman year at Douglas County High School, he began working on his family's boys ranch, where he developed a strong work ethic that would guide him throughout his life. After graduating from high school, he entered the manufacturing industry before eventually pursuing a career in real estate. Earning his real estate license marked a turning point in his professional journey. He later became a partner with Joe Roswell, forming his first business, Piper Realty, while also investing in rental properties and land-which became his main focus. Gary's business success was rooted in integrity and diligence, qualities that earned him respect from colleagues, clients, and tenants alike.

A devout Christian, Gary tithed faithfully on all his earnings and attributed his financial security to God's blessings. His faith was not only personal but deeply active; he volunteered regularly at church and gave generously to various Christian charities. His daily life reflected his devotion to God, and he lived out his beliefs through service, compassion, and generosity.

Gary's love for the outdoors was evident in how he spent his free time. He enjoyed four-wheeling in his Scout, fishing, horseback riding, and hunting-especially at his tepee retreat. Deer and elk hunting trips with his longtime friend John Coy were cherished traditions, and later his son Kevin joined them. These outings evolved into annual pheasant hunting trips to Nebraska with Kevin and his grandsons, Logan and Garrett-creating treasured family memories.

Travel also played a meaningful role in Gary's life. The family took many RV trips across the United States. Later in life, he made frequent trips to Belize, where he worked, played, and invested. He made many friends and blessed countless locals through his support of local churches and camps. One particularly adventurous trip involved driving through Mexico in a school bus he had purchased and filled with supplies-accompanied by a guide and his cousin. He had many other adventures in Belize alongside his dear friend Jim Dardano. His time there was a reflection of both his adventurous spirit and unwavering commitment to service.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Genevra A. Wagner; daughter, Kimberly D. Wagner; son, Kevin Wagner; daughter-in-law, Kim H. Wagner; and his cherished grandsons, Logan Wagner and Garrett Wagner. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Trish, brother-in-law, Dale, and nieces and nephews: Robin, Mona, Shawna, Michael, Ashleigh, Tyler, and Craig. His family was central to his life, and he took great pride in the time they spent together.

Those who knew Gary remember him as an honest and caring man who touched countless lives. He had a heart for helping others-always willing to support anyone striving to improve their circumstances.

May the memory of Gary Lyle Wagner bring joy to all who knew him and continue to inspire those whose lives he touched through faith, kindness, and unwavering integrity. Rejoice in the knowledge that he has reached his eternal home and heard the words we all hope to hear from our Heavenly Father: "Well done, thy good and faithful servant." His greatest legacy was the souls he reached for Christ. May we all honor his memory by doing the same.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Every Home for Christ through their website.

Memorial Gathering

Date: July 26, 2025
Time: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Location: Clubhouse, 9717 Cherry Lane, Thornton, CO 80229
Details: Food and memories | Casual attire
RSVP: Kim H. Wagner at (720) 284-4565