James Dee Wagner's Obituary
In loving memory of James Dee Wagner of Bradenton, Florida, who passed away April 30, 2025 at Stone River Retirement Community. His infectious smile and sense of humor brought joy to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Whether in laughter or in kindness, he had a way of brightening everyone's day. He will be deeply missed, but the warmth of his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Jim was born March 2, 1939 in Buffalo, West Virginia, to parents May Baker and Orr Wagner. As a young man he moved to Columbus, Ohio and enjoyed a career at Ohio State University in the Facilities Maintenance department working on HVAC systems. His true calling was his second career as an ice skating coach. He was certified as a "Gold" level ice dancer and taught freestyle, ice dancing and synchronized skating at OSU ice rink and later the Dublin Chiller. He even coached the local synchronized skating team the "Chill Factor". He was beloved by all of his students and earned the nickname "Coach" which stayed with him the rest of his life. After retiring from skating instruction, he moved to Bradenton, Florida in 2001 and began to play golf, becoming a member of the local golf club. There he discovered the joy of retrieving lost balls from water hazards, and soon had an overly large collection. One often wondered if he enjoyed retrieving balls more than playing… In 2006, after missing ice skating, he decided to take up ballroom dancing, where his skating skills quickly translated into dancing skills. Jim was the ultimate gentleman, gliding across the floor with dignity and grace. He would sometimes spend years perfecting a dance with his coach, Tess. He danced for the rest of his life. Jim struggled with his health for two decades, but never let his troubles get the better of him - every time he was knocked down, he got right back up. He was the model of strength and resilience, grateful for every day he was given. Jim was never married, and never had children. But he did have an "adopted" family - Debbie and Andrew, Matt and Whitney, Antonio, Angel and Emily - spending many holidays and birthdays with them. He had a best friend - Stoney - and many other friends and neighbors that adored him. He also had his beloved Samantha, a shelter dog that never left his side, urging him to go outside and make the rounds of his neighborhood every day. Jim lived his life well. Rest in peace, Jim.
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