Dr. Wayne A. Wagner passed away peacefully with Joan by his side on March 2, 2026, at the age of 94. A devoted husband, veterinarian, Navy officer, and man of deep Christian faith, Wayne lived a life defined by service, dedication, and quiet humility.

Wayne was born on February 16, 1932, in Highland Park, Illinois, to Walter A. Wagner and Lucile C. Wagner. He grew up just outside of town, where he and his younger brother Ron enjoyed exploring the ponds, woods, and open spaces around their home. Winters were spent skating on the frozen pond, and summers were filled with rowing a small boat across the water—simple adventures that shaped many of his fondest childhood memories.

He graduated from Highland Park High School in 1950, where he "majored" in football. After working for a year, he enrolled at Mississippi State College in Starkville, Mississippi, studying Dairy Science in the School of Agriculture. Wayne graduated in May 1955 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture, earning special honors that made his parents very proud.

Following graduation, Wayne attended Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island, where he received his commission as a U.S. Naval Ensign in November 1955. He served primarily aboard the USS Cavalier (APA-37) based out of Long Beach, California, and also served in Japan. He was then transferred to the amphibious base in San Diego prior to his honorable discharge as a Lieutenant in 1958.

On October 14, 1956, Wayne married Joan Jenkins in her hometown of Havre, Montana. They made their first home together in Long Beach where he was on active duty. Their marriage spanned nearly seven decades and was marked by deep partnership, shared faith, and enduring love.

After completing his military service, Wayne accepted a position with Meadow Gold Dairy in Greeley, Colorado, where he and Joan made their home. In 1961, he made the decision to pursue veterinary medicine and enrolled at Colorado State University. He graduated in 1965 with his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree.

Wayne began practicing veterinary medicine in Loveland, Colorado, in a mixed practice. In 1968, he and Joan returned to Greeley and established West Ridge Animal Hospital for small animals, opening the practice in the fall of that year. Together they enjoyed serving the community for more than a decade, caring for countless animals. In 1979, due to health concerns, Wayne sold the hospital and practice to Dr. James Emmett.

In 1980, he began a new chapter as manager of Professional Veterinary Supply in Greeley, working with a group of veterinarians to serve practices across a five-state region. Wayne thoroughly enjoyed this role and the relationships it brought, continuing until his retirement in 1993.

Wayne's life was deeply shaped by his Christian faith. The foundation was first laid through the influence of his college roommate at Mississippi State, and later strengthened by Joan's quiet and steady faith. Those influences led Wayne to accept Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior on March 29, 1959 - a decision that guided the rest of his life. At the time of his passing, they were members of Generations Church, where throughout the years he faithfully served in many church roles, including church board member, greeter, jail ministry volunteer, and leader of the senior fellowship group known as the "Hearty Souls." Wayne loved the Lord and found joy in serving Him and spending time with fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.

In retirement, Wayne found satisfaction volunteering in the community and serving on various boards and organizations. He and Joan enjoyed traveling together throughout the United States and abroad, creating many cherished memories along the way.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Lucile Wagner; his brothers, Walter (Carleen) Wagner and Ronald (Martha) Wagner; sisters, Phyllis (LeRoy) Haas, Caryl (Bemis) Carlton, and Barbara Nikolai; and an infant son. He is also preceded by brother-in-law, Walter (Loretta) Jenkins; and sister-in-law, Donna (Marlan) Olson.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Joan; sister-in-law, Irene Mischke; brothers-in-law, Doug (Gayle) Jenkins and Dave (Danelle) Jenkins; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Wayne will be remembered for his steady character, his dedication to his profession, his love for his family, and his unwavering faith in God. His life touched many through his service, kindness, and willingness to serve. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

A service to celebrate Wayne's life will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at 1:00pm at Generations Church, 3600 W 22nd Street in Greeley, followed by a brief reception. Inurnment will take place at a later date at Linn Grove Cemetery in Greeley, Colorado.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Samaritan's Purse online or by mail (PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607).