Richard Lee Wagner

December 26, 1954 - October 5, 2024

Kansas City, Kansas - Richard Lee Wagner, was born on December 26, 1954, in Kansas City, Kansas, and passed away tragically on October 5th, 2024 while exploring Mexico on a bicycle, a pursuit he loved dearly. At the age of 69, his life was cut short, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, adventure, and a deep connection with nature.

Richard was a man whose life was as vibrant and dynamic as the landscapes he explored. He was a devoted father, a cherished member of his communities in both Kansas City and Mexico, and a friend to many. Known for his easygoing nature and ability to connect with people, Richard's authenticity and adventurous spirit were sources of inspiration.

He attended Christ the King Primary School and Bishop Hogan High School, eventually furthering his passion for creativity at the Kansas City Art Institute and completing his bachelor's at UMKC with a degree in Spanish. His love for the outdoors and his adventurous spirit were not just hobbies but integral parts of who he was.

Richard is survived by his daughters, Araceli Wagner Montemayor and Magdalena Wagner; son-in-law, Kevin Montemayor; his beloved dog Bella, siblings, Norma Wagner Spear (Joseph Spear) and Gerard Wagner (Susan Wagner); and numerous nieces and nephews, including Brenda and Eve, whom he considered his other daughters as well as Gabby the mother of his daughters. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Wagner and Josephine Chandler Wagner.

His legacy will continue to inspire and impact everyone who knew him, as they rally around his family to honor a life well-lived but ended too soon.

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Published by Kansas City Star from Nov. 20 to Nov. 24, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Wagner

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5 Entries

December 1, 2024

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Evelin

November 28, 2024

One of my favorite memories of my uncle Richard was running into him during a sporting event in Kansas City, Kansas back in 2018. I recognized him on his bicycle as he rode towards me. We proceeded to enjoy the event and enjoyed talking about many soccer teams worldwide. From that moment our relationship grew stronger. As the years passed, he was always there giving me great advice and support. I will forever cherish his wise words and wisdom. We love you very much. You may not be here with us, but to us you are always in our hearts.

- Eve (niece)

Brenda Estrada

November 24, 2024

My uncle rich was my father figure throughout my life. I was so blessed to have him. Growing up he would always invite me to family road trips to Herman Missouri, camping trips and sleep overs with my cousins Araceli and Magda. I remembered he would show up to my events like "doughnuts with dad" in elementary school, my high school play, graduations and when I celebrated becoming a citizen at Kauffman stadium I ran into him. I will always remember him being there and wanting to be in my life because as a kid you noticed who will actively show their love for you. I will forever be grateful spending time with him at Araceli´s wedding and I got to thank him for being there for me throughout life. My only regret is he didn´t get to meet my daughters. They are my life´s greatest accomplishments and I was so excited for my girls to meet him. I will forever talk about him, my girls will know about him. I love you uncle rich. Your 3rd daughter; Brenda.

Charlie LePage

November 22, 2024

Rich and I were good friends in high school and many years after. We had many great adventures and biked around KC a lot. I was fortunate to have him and one of his daughters come and visit us at Lake Table Rock a few years back. I will cherish my memories of Rich. Rest In Peace my friend.

Dianne L. Young

November 21, 2024

Richard, you left us much too soon, and we are sad,know that you are truly missed. I miss sharing a piece of rhubarb pie with you. I miss our talks on football, bicycling, dogs, the arts, Kansas City, and the many bicycle trips you took in the area. You helped me remember the little of the Spanish language, and often brought me the first pumpkin latte' of the season. Spirited discussions, and talks of the future were shared. I miss you..I miss your caring ways, your breezy lifestyle and the adventures you had. I loved the beautiful photos of Mexico that you posted on line of the places you visited in Mexico, and looked forward to your experiences as you shared them. Your drawings of the areas in Mexico were so nice, the Plaza, the hills and valleys, and I loved the drawings of the people and the buildings, people going about their daily tasks..you lived it all, and took it all in and loved it with all your heart. Now, you are in a beautiful loving place far away from us, but mostly, in a place that will share with you their love and joy at being in God's home. Rest in peace, my dear friend. I shall remember you always, with much fondness.

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