Jerry Wagner, 86, of Eagle, ID, passed away on Sunday, February 4, 2024, at his home in Meridian, ID. He was born on December 18, 1937, to Dorothy Jane (Lee) and Karl Dayton Wagner in Centralia, Washington. Jerry was the second of seven children, with two sisters and four brothers.
Jerry attended Ground Mound Elementary school and Centralia High school, where he met his lifelong sweetheart and companion, Karen Louise Kepper. They were engaged during the summer between their Freshman and Sophomore years of high school.
After following a friend to Boise, ID for a job, Jerry fell in love with the area. He and Karen were married on May 18, 1957, in Centralia, WA, and immediately relocated to Boise, ID. They eventually settled in Eagle, ID, where they raised their three children: Rodney Adam Wagner, Deborah Lynn Wagner, and Vicki Kay Wagner. They would remain in Eagle, ID for more than 60 years before relocating to Meridian, ID. Many siblings, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great grandchildren and even a few animals enjoyed “Wagners Place”.
Jerry was a devoted provider for his family, establishing businesses and working various jobs throughout his life. He built Jerry’s Repair and Star Auto Parts in the early 70s, operated these businesses for many years, and later volunteered for the Eagle Fire Department. He also worked at the Idaho Feedlot before retiring.
Throughout his life he enjoyed hunting with friends and family, racing cars at Meridian Speedway with his friend Dick Teutsch, participating in community events such as the Eagle Fun Days and the Rocky Mountain Oyster Nut feed he helped start while volunteering for Eagle Fire. After retirement he and Karen purchased a railcar and joined the North American Railcar Association which became his favorite hobby. He also cherished attending his children’s, grandchildren’s, and great-grandchildren’s activities and events.
Jerry is preceded in death by his parents Dorothy (Lee) & Karl Dayton Wagner. His sister Shirlee Ann Mill (Don), brothers Roger Harry Wagner, and Richard Lee Wagner, Sister-in-Law Kathy Wagner (Wilcox), and grandsons Darrell Thomas Surber, and Jerry Adam Surber.
Jerry is survived by his wife of 66.5 years, Karen Wagner, brothers Ronald Wagner, and Thomas Wagner (Jenny), sister Jane Briske (Gary). Children Rod Wagner (Debi), Debbie Watkins (Jim), and Vicki Wagner (Patrick). Grandchildren Jennifer Wagner, Carlie Seamons (Zach), Jamie Wagner, Samantha Banuat (Andrew), Chase Watkins (Cindy), Riley Surber (Aliah), Trent Israel (Hannah). Great Grandchildren Alyse Banuat, Ava Banuat, Ryder Wagner, Weston Seamons, Everlee Seamons, Harper Banuat, & Holden Banuat. His favorite 4 legged companion Toby, and many nieces & nephews.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 17th 3:00PM – 8:00PM, Open House Style, at the Cadence of Bainbridge Clubhouse located at 3778 W Sunny Cove Ln, Meridian ID 83646