Gary D. Wagner, 87

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Gary D. Wagner, 87, of Carrollton, passed away Friday evening Aug. 14, 2020, at Carroll Golden Age Retreat in Carrollton.

Born Jan. 3, 1933, in Perrysville, he was a son of the late W. Emmet and Florence Kirby Wagner.

Gary owned and operated Wagner Auto Sales for over 30 years. He loved getting a good deal and making a good sale. He also worked at the Carroll Journal newspaper, running press and type setting. He was a talented wood worker, from working construction, to helping his family with building projects, to making knick-knacks he would often share with those he loved. He had a soft spot for animals, including his dogs, goats and cats. His cat, Wallace, brought him much comfort and companionship in his final years at home.

He is survived by his five children, Terry Wagner, Rick (Sharon) Wagner, Cheryl (Ted) Miller, Bob (June) Wagner and Julie (Brian) Arbogast; 10 grandchildren, Marcy (Jeff) Robison, Kevin (Sarah) Wagner, Olivia Wagner, Morgan Wagner, Mark (Sarah) Wagner, Michelle (Mursel) Kilickiran, Melissa (Ryan) Stanton, Eric (Brittany) Wagner and Benjamin and Samantha Arbogast; 14 great-grandchildren, Hannah and Ella Robison, Dean, Andon, Ansley and Grant Wagner, Kyleigh Haueter, Easton and Nash Wagner, Asher, Parker and Emsley Stanton, and Evie and Evan Wagner. He delighted in each of them, and they always made him light up when they would visit.

He could have a tough, “gruff” exterior, but he had a tender and caring heart. If he picked on you, that was a sure sign that he loved you.

Along with his parents he was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Dolores Marie (Sell) Wagner, in 2017; a brother, Ronnie Wagner; and great-grandson, Eli Wagner.

A public graveside service will be held Wednesday, Aug. 19, at 10 a.m. at Westview Cemetery in Carrollton with Rev. Kimberly Arbaugh officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Gary’s name to Community Hospice, 716 Commercial Ave. SW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.