Wagner's death reminds editor of fruitful times

Sept. 9, 2011

The news of Ed Wagner's death marks the end of an era. Modern Tire Dealer Editor writes about the good old days in his latest blog, “Ed Wagner was a man’s man at a time his industry needed him.”

In addition, here is his official obituary from the Ratterman Brothers Funeral Home:

“Edward J. Wagner, 87, of Louisville, passed away Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2011, at Jefferson Place.

“Born April 24, 1924, in Boston, Mass., he was the son of the late Joseph Wagner and Minnie Baluc. He was the owner/president of Tire Technical Services Inc.; an Army Air Force veteran, having served during World War II; and was a member of St. Albert the Great Catholic Church.

“He was the managing director of the American Retreaders Association for more than 25 years, a member of St. Al's Aces and volunteer for the Society of St. Vincent DePaul and St. Anthony Soup Kitchen.

“He is preceded in death by three sisters, Eleanor Mahan, Lillian Smith and Virginia Cecchini.

“Edward is survived by his wife of 60 years, Martha Gerry Wagner; five sons: Edward J. (Carol) Wagner Jr. of Manhattan Beach, Calif., John S. Wagner of Louisville, Bob A. (Sallie) Wagner of Madison, Ala., Joe T. Wagner of Louisville, and Rich S. (Julie) Wagner of Columbus, Ind.; four daughters: Stephanie A. Cassidy (Michael) and Mary M. Smith (Steve) both of Louisville, Stella I. Nugent (Lew) of Prospect, and Teresa M. Wagner (Eric Bischoff) of Seattle, Wash. He is also survived by nine grandchildren.

“The family would like to express (its) sincere gratitude to the staff at Jefferson Place and Palliative Care for their compassionate care.”

His funeral Mass will be celebrated 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 12, at St. Albert the Great Catholic Church, 1395 Girard Drive, Louisviile, KY 40222, with burial to follow in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. on Sunday at Ratterman's, 3711 Lexington Rd., Louisville, KY 40207.

Memorial gifts in the form of contributions may be made to Society of St. Vincent DePaul or Mass of the Air.

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