Joseph Wagner

Joseph Andrew Wagner, age 79, of Austin, died Wednesday, January 5, 2011, ironically at St. Joseph's Hospital in St. Paul, Minnesota. Joe was born June 25, 1931 in Austin to Nick and Margaret (Christy) Wagner and was the ultimate middle child, having nine older and nine younger siblings. He often begged for more attention by complaining that he not only was the middle child but unfortunately was born just prior to the famous Wagner twins, Jim and Joanne, who constantly required the spotlight. Joe graduated from St. Augustine High School in 1949 where he was a star athlete with other Austin icons such as Bill Christopherson, Gene Leif, the Sherman Brothers, and Coach Leo Redding. He attended Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa and then enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he served four years. He was honorably discharged in 1955. He proudly wore his Korean War Veteran hat and spoke highly of his world wide travels in the service. Joe married Rita Carter in 1955 in Chicago, Illinois. Their married life began in Austin, working for Wagner Construction. In 1965, Joe and Rita started the Joseph Company with Dale and Geri Beckel. The company grew over the years and continues successfully today built upon Joe's strong core values of honesty, integrity and quality. Joe's passions were Rita, his children, the Church...and the game of golf. His accomplishments in golf were legendary having won three Wagner Opens, two Best Ball Championships at the Austin Country Club and leading money winner over a 30 year span in the ACC Invitational. He most enjoyed teaching the game of golf to his children, grandchildren and anyone who would listen. His sense of humor and patience always made it fun and memorable. Joe was an active member of the Austin community. In 1984, he helped form and was a charter member of the Development Corporation of Austin. He and Rita helped organize and establish the Austin Catholic Schools Foundation. In 1976, they created and promoted for many years the Pacelli Dinner Dance, a major Fundraiser for the Catholic Schools. According to Joe's grandchildren, he was Mayor, Sheriff, owned a major candy store, and caught many bank robbers in Austin. He promised, but never delivered, ponies for all his granddaughters and Ford Mustang convertibles for all his grandsons. Quite a man, whatever the perspective. Joe was preceded in death by his son, Peter and beloved wife, Rita. He is survived by son, Carter (Meg), Austin; son, Joey "JJ" (Connie), Brentwood, CA; daughter, Liz Myran (Mark), Eagan; daughter-in-law, Kim, Foothill Ranch, CA; 13 grandchildren; seven sisters; two brothers; and hundreds of nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held from 4-7 pm on Friday, January 14 at Mayer Funeral Home with a Rosary following. Holy Mass to celebrate Joe's life will be at 1:00 pm on Saturday, January 15 at St. Augustine Catholic Church with co-celebrants Father Joe Fogal and Father Paul Nelson officiating. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post #91 and V.F.W. Post #1216. Memorials are preferred to the Alzheimer's Association.

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