John J. Wagner Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

John J. Wagner age 89, of Butternut, died on Saturday August 25, 2018 at his home. He was born on June 14, 1929, the son of Joseph and Anna (Pichler) Wagner. John lived most of his life in Butternut, growing up on the family farm in the Town of Chippewa, and was a fixture in the community as an adult. His handiwork as a carpenter can be seen throughout the north woods in the shape of homes, barns, garages, churches, and other buildings; and the endless hours he spent splitting field stone to create beautiful pieces of workmanship are apparent to those who look around. John was a pillar of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Butternut, serving for many years as the gravedigger for St. Cecelia Catholic Cemetery. He spared no one of his wit and dry sense of humor, as those who played cards with him, or competed against him for fair prizes, would well attest. He was a champion gardener, master stone mason, and an accomplished carpenter who was well known and respected by those who were able to witness any of the innumerable items he grew, created, or built. John served his country in the United States Army on the front line during the Korean War and was awarded the Purple Heart. John was beloved by his family and a small circle of friends. His integrity was well known. John was a regular at many local restaurants; his image is present on one of the murals in Butternut; and his presence within the community spoke louder than any words he ever said. He is survived by his: (3)brothers: Frank (Betty) Wagner of Park Falls Edward (Sheila) Wagner of Woodruff Louis Wagner of Park Falls his aunt Katherine Wagner of Park Falls and many nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, (3)brothers: Joseph, William, and Leonard, (3)sisters: Mary Ann Bucheger, Theresa Zimmerman-Anderson, and Rose Differt, (3)brothers-in-law: Ray Bucheger, Eugene Zimmerman, & Donald Anderson, (3)sisters-in-law: Marge, Mary, and Kathy Wagner. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday August 29, 2018 at 11:00am from Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Butternut. Fr. Shaji Pazhukkathara and Deacon Bob Schienebeck will co-officiate. Burial will follow at St. Cecelia Catholic Cemetery in Butternut with military honors under the auspices of the Butternut American Legion Post. A visitation will be held on Wednesday at the church from 9:00am until the hour of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Cecelia Catholic Cemetery would be appreciated.

John J. Wagner

June 14, 1929 - August 25, 2018