Ken Wagner, 70, North Webster, passed away at his home on April 11, 2018, surrounded by his wife, children, and grandsons.

He was born Sept. 26, 1947, in Nappanee to Francis and Maxine (Canen) Wagner. On July 4, 1968, at Fort Sill, Okla., he married Judy Ridings, who survives. Born and raised in Nappanee, his family had a cottage on Syracuse Lake for many years.

He graduated from Nappanee High School and attended Purdue University. A Vietnam veteran, he was honorably discharged from the US Army. Moving to Indianapolis, he managed several Burger Chef and later Arby’s restaurants. In 1978, the family moved to North Webster where he worked for C&J Construction and Searfoss Construction, then worked for many years at Ace Hardware in North Webster. He also worked at Dekko and Tippecanoe Siding.

Ken Wagner was a member of North Webster Church of God where he sang bass in the men’s gospel trio and quartet. He also served on the North Webster town council and captained and drove the Dixie Boat around Webster Lake.

He is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Judy; a daughter, Mikki Oberg, North Webster; son, Jackson Cory (Malary) Wagner, North Manchester; three grandsons: Chris Wagner, North Webster; Nick Wagner, North Manchester; and Braxton Oberg, North Webster; also two great grandsons: Areson Wagner, and Grayson Wagner; three sisters:  Betty Marguerite Adams, Nappanee; Marcia Yocum, Bristol; and Marla Deter, Milford; two brothers: Allen (Glenna) Wagner, Texas; and Randy (Diane) Wagner of Tucson, Ariz. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded by his parents and a nephew.

Visitation will be from 1-4 p.m., Saturday, April 14, at the Eastlund Funeral Home. Services will immediately follow at 4 p.m. with Pastor Dennis Judy officiating. Military Honors will conclude services.

Memorial contributions may be made to World Compassion Network, PO Box 1152 Warsaw, IN 46581, or The Rescue Mission, Lockbox A1, PO Box 2589, Ft. Wayne, IN 46801.