James G. Wagner

James G. Wagner Of Vandalia, Ohio passed away peacefully in his home on January 1, 2015, at the age of 86. Jim was born October 28, 1928 in Upper Sandusky, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Clara, by his brothers Walt and Ed, and by his sister Eileen. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Jean, their three sons David, Steve, and Tim, daughters-in-law Peggy, Kayla, and Janelle, and six grandchildren, as well as by his two brothers, Harold and Gene. Jim enlisted in the Army in 1950 and saw combat in Korea. After his service he enrolled at Bowling Green University, where he met his beloved Jean. He earned a Bachelor of Arts from BGU, and Master of Arts in Art Education from Miami University of Ohio. After marrying, Jim and Jean settled in Vandalia in 1957. For over 25 years Jim taught art at Meadowdale and other elementary schools in the Dayton City Schools, then began his active retirement in 1994. Along with Jean, Jim was a parishioner of St. Christopher Catholic Church in Vandalia. They sang in the choir there for nearly 40 years. In addition, they were active members of Sister Cities of Vandalia, the Historical Society of Vandalia Butler, and the Knights of Columbus. Jim was an avid golfer, a committed teacher, and above all a devoted family man. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 6 at Morton & Whetstone Funeral Home, 139 S. Dixie Dr., Vandalia. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12 noon Wednesday, January 7 at St. Christopher's, 435 W. National Road, Vandalia. Interment will follow at Dayton Memorial Park. If friends desire, contributions may be made in memory of James Wagner to Grace Hospice of Dayton, or Sister Cities of Vandalia.