Timothy J. Wagner

Timothy J. Wagner passed away Wednesday, August 3, 2016. Born in Cedar Falls, Iowa, Tim moved to Fort Wayne, Indiana when he was 9 years old. He attended Bishop Dwenger High School, graduating in 1971. He briefly attended Indiana University where he was fond of saying he made the Dean's list…not the honors list, but the one where they ask you not to come back! He refocused, transferred to Purdue University and graduated With Distinction and a degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1976. He obtained his Professional Engineer's license in 1980. Tim started his career working for Paul Hosler Company from 1977 to 1981, and Shambaugh and Son from 1981 to 1992 when he and Denny Meinert established Wagner-Meinert, LLC, an Industrial Refrigeration and Food Process Engineering and Contracting Company. For 24 Years Tim was instrumental in fostering a culture at WMI built on trust, treating people well and "doing the right thing." Professionally, he was proud of what the WMI team built and what they accomplished together. He was never a boss, always a leader, and always referred to "working with team members", instead of people working "for him". Tim was the epitome of a humble leader. He felt very blessed with the family he was given and always wanted to help those who weren't "dealt such a great hand," especially children. Of all his community involvement, his years on the Board of Directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters Northeast Indiana were the most personally rewarding. On June 28th at the Big Brothers Big Sisters National Conference in Orlando, he was honored with the Clifford P. Norman Service award, which is a National Award given to a Board Member who exemplifies the qualities of commitment and generosity. In sharing his time, talents and treasures, he also served on the St. Jude Parish Council, and the Board of Directors of St. Anne Home and Retirement Community. Tim was a member of the Knights of Columbus and Legatus. His Professional memberships included: the International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration; Refrigerating Engineers and Technicians Association; and the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers. Tim's Professional and volunteer roles were superseded only by his role as a family man. His greatest source of joy was being a devoted husband to his bride of 41 years, Karen whom Tim referred to as his Queen. Their partnership will remain the gold standard for marriage by all who know them. He was a devoted Dad to: Joe Wagner, Emily (Thomas) Johnson, and Susie (Joel) Rogers; and loving Bopa to his grandchildren, Grace, George and Gus Wagner; Mina, Finn and Fitz Johnson; and Lucy Rogers. His children and grandchildren will miss his guidance, enthusiasm and cheerleading. In addition to Karen and their children and grandchildren, Tim is survived by his brothers: Tom (Jeanne) Wagner, Terry (Yvonne) Wagner, and Tony (Elaine) Wagner; sisters Tammy (Bob) Warner, Tracy (Phil) Roach and Trudy (Brandon) Landers, as well as Karen's siblings Mark (Rosemarie) Schenkel, Bob (Laura) Schenkel, Steve (Libby) Schenkel, Anne (Jim) Casteen, and many nieces and nephews. Tim was preceded in death by his parents Tony & Shirley and brother Teddy. Tim will be remembered for his optimism, his commitment to always doing the right thing, his life changing mentoring and generosity, and his tremendous humility. He was simply everybody's "favorite." Memorial Donations may be made to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana and the Anthony & Shirley Wagner Scholarship Fund at Bishop Dwenger High School. The best way to truly honor Tim is to mentor a child or change a life for the better. Calling at D.O. McComb & Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 East Dupont Rd on Sunday, August 7, 2016 from 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm & 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm. Burial in Catholic Cemetery. Mass of Christian Burial is 10:30 am, Monday, August 8, 2016 at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 1502 E. Wallen Rd, with calling 1 hour prior. To sign the online guest book, go to www.domccombandsons.com