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Robert Wagner Obituary

Robert Leo "Bob" Wagner

Whitney Point, NY - Robert (Bob) was born in Brooklyn, NY, to Robert A. Wagner and Helen L. (Fink) Wagner. He was the eldest of two children. His sister, Ellen (Wagner) Reed, preceded him in death. He spent most of his life growing up in East Meadow, NY. He was married to his first wife, Judith A. (Collins) Wagner in 1960. They had three children, Robert R. (Susan Stearns), Keith E. (Spirit Wagner), and Wendy L. (Alan Setchell). After the death of Judith, he shared a very close relationship with a schoolmate, Joan Brion. Following her death, he reconnected with another school friend, Linda Montero, and they married in 2004. They shared almost 16 years of marriage together. In addition to his parents, sister, and first wife, he is preceded in death by his step-son, Robert Raitano. He is survived by his children and their spouses; step-son Arthur Raitano (Sachi Hayashi) , Lisa Lance; grandchildren Kathryn (Aaron), Bryent (Jenny), Elise, Robert, Justin, Kevin, Samantha (Kyle), Jason (Catherine), Alexandria, Timothy (Paige), David, Zackary, and Elizabeth; great grandchildren Charlotte, Cheyanne, Jay, Luca, and Luna; and many others who are unofficially adopted children and grandchildren. A ferociously dedicated educator, he spent nearly his entire teaching career in the Whitney Point Central School District. His dedication and demand for excellence contributed to several of his students becoming accomplished professional musicians, advocates for music, and music educators. He retired after 37 years of teaching. Following his retirement, he continued teaching privately and playing professionally, traveling extensively with the Sammy Kay Orchestra. He played with the Guy Lombardo Big Band, Music Unlimited, and several other local groups as well. His most recent ensemble, from which he just retired, was the Mason Warrington Orchestra. Bob will be remembered for his ability to open his heart and home to those who needed such. Many found refuge because of this. All who knew him knew that he was one who stood his ground when he thought he was right - and he always thought he was right. He will also be forever loved for his dedication to his children and grandchildren, particularly as they ventured out into the world. The family will receive friends at Sunset Memorial Services LLC 2659 Main St. Saturday July 18, 2020 from 4-7 PM. In Lieu of Flowers please consider a contribution to the Robert L. Wagner Memorial Scholarship Fund, being established through the Whitney Point Central School District, for a graduating student pursuing a career in the performing or visual arts. Online condolences can be made at WWW.SUNSETMEMORIALSERVICES.COM.. Please me mindful and follow all COVID-19 restrictions and follow social distancing protocols.

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Published by Press & Sun-Bulletin from Jul. 16 to Jul. 18, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Wagner

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6 Entries

Kathryn ( Pratt) Hennings

July 26, 2020

He was a very giving man and helped out when he could.

Karen Young

July 18, 2020

I last was a student of Mr Wagner in 1986. He taught band and gave me individual lessons ( which I rarely went to) he didn't like that and made sure to tell me about it regularly. My music showed that I didn't go to lessons too! He really was a good man. I had no idea he did so many things after retirement and played with so many famous groups and people. Amazing man. He will be missed! Prayers and blessings to his family.

Alan Howell

July 17, 2020

Bob Wagner provided advice and indulgence to me as a young teaching and performing colleague, and he was likely partially responsible for my gaining employment with the WPCSD in 1996. He never asked for anything in return (when such was offered, he asked for Metaxa five-star brandy from a trip to Greece - he was worth every drop of the seven-star I brought back). He knew and performed with my older brothers in many local professional ensembles for many years, and with me since 1988. I am grateful for his presence in my musical life.

Pat (Haye) Worden

July 17, 2020

Sincere condolences to Mr. Wagner's family. I had him for a teacher in high school. Wonderful sense of humor and made the class a fun learning experience. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

Rene Schmidt

July 16, 2020

Bob was my mentor, teacher, colleague and friend. He helped me navigate the music education field as a new teacher, guided me and hundreds of others and dedicated his work building people through music. His gift with his students made them fiercely loyal. He was one of the best. Driven by passion, talent, compassion and vision. BCMEA is one of his lasting, thriving legacies. God bless you Bob. Im sure you are creating some interesting ensembles with the angels.

Rene Schmidt

July 16, 2020

So sorry for your loss. Bob was a mentor to me, a friend and a colleague. I have fond memories of conducting for him when BCMEA was hosted at Whitney Point, and some wonderful NYSSMA conference experiences. He was an amazing educator and his legacy was that he touched and loved hundreds of students. I bless his memory as one of my greatest role models. Bob, Rest In Peace as you teach and play with the angels.

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