Elmer S. Wagner, 89, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2023 surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 7, 1934 in Butler, Pennsylvania, Elmer was married to Patricia Louise “Patsy” O’Neil of Butler from January 15, 1955 until her passing in December 2013.
Elmer was a graduate of Butler High School. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War with his four brothers. He worked and served as a union representative at Armco Steel, and he could reliably be found in his favorite pew at All Saints Parish, St. Paul Roman Catholic Church. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion #0778 and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He was devoted to his family and was beloved by them. His love for his family, sharp mind, and sense of humor remained undiminished until the very end. Known for his love of Pittsburgh sports, college football, and his incredible quick wit, Elmer brought laughter to all who knew him.
He is survived by his five children, Thomas Wagner of SC, Catherine Hemphill of Butler, Mary (Terry) Allen of Butler, Joyce (Phillip) Boos of MD, and Charles (Karen) Wagner of Washington, PA; his 11 grandchildren, Celina (Rusty) Karnes, Erika (Shawn) Moroney, Angela (Justin) Mechalske, Brittnee (Tim) Madigan, Jason (Cat) Boos, Tiffany (Dan) Schwartzmier, Matthew (Sara) Hemphill, Rachel (Lewis) Bruton, Jacob (Aspen) Boos, Hudson Wagner and Barlow Wagner; his 14 great-grandchildren, Mackenzie, Rylee, Sydney, Hayden, Owen, Madeline, Gavin, Alana, Joyanna, Jackson, Mason, Harrison, Lucas, and Effie; as well as his step-brother Larry Dorenkamp of Butler, and a number of cousins, nieces, and nephews. In addition to his wife, Patricia, he was preceded in death by his parents, Laverne Wagner and Grace C. Haug; his son, James Michael Wagner; his four brothers, two step brothers, and one step-sister. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The family will be forever grateful for the kind, compassionate, and loving care provided by the staff at Magnolia Place Saxonburg and Hope Hospice. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your local food bank.
The friends of Elmer S. Wagner will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 PM on Tuesday, November 7 at the Geibel Funeral Home, 201 E. Cunningham St., Butler. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, November 8 at the St. Paul Roman Catholic Church, 128 N. McKean St., Butler. Interment will follow at St. Peter Cemetery in Butler.