Lonnie J Wagner

Menasha WI

Lonnie J. Wagner, age 85, of Menasha, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 14, 1940, in Appleton, son of Norbert and Estella (Loerke) Wagner.

As a boy, he worked summers on his relatives’ farm in Hayton, where he learned the value of hard work. He attended Sacred Heart Catholic School, Kaukauna High School, and the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he earned a bachelor's degree in Economics.

Lonnie’s lifelong love story began at a Hilbert band concert in 1955, where he met Kathryne Koehler. They married five years later, on August 13, 1960, and together created a life centered on faith and family. Lonnie’s dedication stretched beyond his marriage, as he lovingly stepped into the role of father figure for Kathy’s younger siblings and was a pillar of support for her mother.

His faith guided him throughout his life, expressed in his service to his church, community and as a long-time member and leader in the Hilbert Lions Club. He was recognized for his many accomplishments while forming lifelong friendships. For many years, Lonnie’s work as a traveling salesman took him across Wisconsin, where his honesty and warmth earned the respect and friendship of those he served.

At home, he devoted himself to family life—Friday fish fries, softball games at the Koehler farm, and was a faithful Packers fan. He and Kathy attended games in Green Bay for many years without missing a home game, and he cheered on his Packers, in person, at Lambeau Field, during the famous 1967 New Year’s Eve “Ice Bowl.” His retirement years brought treasured time at the cabin in Manitowish Waters and time spent with grandchildren at their many activities. 

Though his later years brought health challenges, Lonnie’s spirit never wavered. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather whose life was defined by devotion, perseverance, humility, and care for others. His true legacy rests in the quiet ways he reflected God’s love in family life, friendships, and simple, everyday acts of kindness.

Survivors include his wife: Kathryne; his children: Wendy (Charlie) Gehl, Donald (Janet) Wagner, David (Kay) Wagner, Michael (Jody) Wagner; grandchildren: Allison (Erik) Becker, Courtney (Chris) Hannegan, Meghan (Ryan) Clemo, Kristen Wagner and her fiancé, Josh Kukowski, Joshua Wagner and his fiancée, Maria Jans, Andrea (Calvin) Buechler, Brandon Wagner, Ashton Wagner, Caleb Wagner; great grandchildren: Jordan, Everly, Reese Becker, Vera Hannegan, Brooks Buechler; a sister: Faythe Weber; siblings-in-law: Mary Jo Dietzen, Candace (Lonnie) Wolf, Bill (Lorelei) Koehler; and a special cousin: Mercedes Schaefer.  He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Norbert and Estella (Loerke) Wagner; a brother: James Wagner; a brother-in-law: Mike Weber; a dear uncle: Roman Loerke; some of Kathy’s siblings and their spouses and other close family and friends.  

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:30 am on Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at St. John Sacred Heart Parish (N369 Military Road) in Sherwood with Rev. Michael Betley officiating.  Inurnment will take place at the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Sherwood.  A time of visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at the church from 9:00 am until 11:15 am.  At the time of the service and following, there will be a link available above for those wishing to watch a livestream or archived recording of the service, view a memorial video, or see pictures of the flowers and gifts given to the family.
 
Lonnie’s family would like to thank the entire staff of Compassus Hospice, especially nurses Liz, Tiffany and Savannah, as well as his Visiting Angels, Rebecca, Nancy and Dot.  They were all incredibly special people who lovingly shared their time and their lives with Lonnie.