John Richard "Wags" Wagner, age 42 of Defiance, passed away on Sunday, September 1, 2024 at his residence surrounded by his family. He was born on August 31, 1982 to Richard and Carolyn (Szabo) Wagner in Abilene, Texas. John was a 2000 graduate of Ayersville High School. He enjoyed playing and watching football, and running track. After graduation he proudly served our country in the U.S. Navy from 2003 to 2008. John was a member of St. John Lutheran Church. Wags will be greatly missed by his family and many good friends. John is survived by his parents, Richard and Carolyn Wagner of Ayersville, his son, Gavin Wagner of Joshua, TX, sisters, Ilona (Chance) Lee of Ayersville and Monika (Elvin) of North Ridgeville, OH, and his grandmother, Patricia Wagner of Macomb, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Richard Wagner, Miklos Szabo, Lottie (Don) Snodgrass, and great-grandmother Gertrude Wagner. Visitation will be held from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at St. John Lutheran Church in Defiance. A Memorial Service will begin immediately after the visitation with military honors. A luncheon will follow at the church.

Schaffer Funeral Home was honored to assist the family with arrangements. Memorials are suggested to Semper Fi & America's Fund, or Fisher House.