Obituary of Robert H. Wagner

NORFOLK – Robert H. (Bob) Wagner, 92, died peacefully late Monday evening with family by his side at 5 Hepburn Street, his home for over 60 years. With his passing, Bob joins his wife, Maree Pauline Guyette Wagner, who predeceased him in June 2007. Married on March 7, 1942 in Madrid NY, they shared 65 years of love, laughter, tears and joy. Born on March 25, 1919 in Cleveland OH, son of Harvey and Emily Holmes Wagner, Mr. Wagner enlisted the U.S. Army on September 29, 1940 and served in the 3rd Army under General George Patton. He was a member of the artillery of the 4th Armed Division, served in five campaigns throughout Europe and achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant. Discharged in June 1945, he was the first veteran to return to Norfolk after peace was declared. Upon his discharge, Mr. Wagner embarked on a long-term railroad career with the Norwood and St. Lawrence Railroad Company. As a repairman in the locomotive roundhouse, it was his first experience with trains. During his tenure, Bob rose through the ranks with the company. From repair mechanic to machinist, master mechanic to foreman, assistant superintendent to manager of transportation. In 1974, the company became the St. Lawrence Railroad with Mr. Wagner as its President, a position he achieved in 1967 and held until his retirement in January 1980 with the refurbished NSL 10 being named in his honor. In his younger years he was very active as a Boy Scout Leader and belonged to the Norfolk Rod & Gun Club where he participated on the Pistol Team and was a certified expert in hand guns. Throughout his life, Bob had many hobbies and enjoyed working with stained glass, making violins, wine-making, brewing beer, sewing, oil painting, cross word puzzles, gardening, cooking, golf, bowling and daily exercise. Mr. Wagner is a past president of the Norfolk Hepburn Library Board and member of the Meadowbrook Golf Club in Winthrop, the What Cheer Masonic Lodge in Norwood, the Norfolk United Methodist Church, and the New York Railroad Association. Bob is survived by his son William Guyette Wagner, daughter-in-law Maria Luzia Wagner and grandchildren Melissa Marie Wagner, William Guyette Wagner Jr. and Alexandre Robert Fidelis Wagner, all residing in the South Florida / Miami area. Sister Marie Taylor, residing in Kansas City MO, and nieces Sherrie Wells of Kansas City MO and Mary Kobold, Culver IN. Mr. Wagner’s arrangements are with Buck Funeral Home with no scheduled calling hours or funeral services; however, to celebrate and honor Bob’s amazing life, the family cordially invites friends to his home on the evening of Thursday, February 9, between the hours of 6 and 8pm. The family expresses sincere gratitude to Bob’s many friends, neighbors, the staff of Hospice and countless members of the North Country community for their extraordinary support and kindness. In lieu of florals or other acts to memorialize Bob, the family requests contributions be made in his memory to the Norfolk Volunteer Rescue Squad or Hospice and Palliative Care of St. Lawrence County. Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.buckfuneralhome.com .