Kenneth Harold "Ken" Wagner

Kenneth Harold Wagner, aged 84, passed away on November 20, 2025 at Atrium Health in Charlotte, NC. He was born on July 10, 1941 in Mansfield, Ohio to Harold and Mildred Wagner. He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Kay. He is survived by his daughters Kim Gentile (Nick) and Kara Scalzitti (Tony) and his sons Kent Wagner (Wendy) and Kyle Wagner (Diane). He was a proud grandfather of eight and proud great grandfather of five.

Ken grew up in Ohio with a passion and appreciation for wildlife and wildlife conservation, and eventually moved to SC in the 1980's for warmer weather. He worked for and retired from the U.S. Postal Service. While working, he spent his spare time studying native wildlife, amassing an extensive menagerie of animals and pets, and as a young man, eventually leading to the opening of the Pine Valley Zoo in Mansfield, Ohio in 1965. It was his dream to share his love of animals and nature with others. He strongly believed in taking care of the earth and environment so that we leave it better than the way found it.

Upon retirement, he continued his work with animals through volunteering at the York County Museum and local animal shelter. He loved sharing his knowledge with others by offering informative talks and demonstrations at schools, museums and local events, often turning them into family affairs by having one or two of his grandchildren as "assistants". Each grandkid passed the torch on to the next as they grew up and became old enough to handle the animals alongside Grandpa.

Ken was truly a special man and one of the smartest self-taught people one could ever meet. Before the age of technology, he was a walking zoological encyclopedia by reading countless books, sharing his appreciation for wildlife with his children, grandchildren, and anyone else who would listen. It is a gift they will all carry with them forever and continue to pass on for many years and generations to come. He was such an incredible man whose passion for wildlife conservation and education touched all those who were ever blessed to have known him. He will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.

Greene Funeral Home is handling the cremation. Per Ken's request, there will be no funeral arrangements, but a Celebration of Life will be held at the Museum of York County on February 1st from 5:30-7:30. Any memorial donations can be made in his name to the Museum of York County or York County Animal Shelter.