James (Jim) Thomas Wagner, 80 years old of Flat Rock, formerly of Charlotte, passed away on Tuesday, July 16, at the Elizabeth House, surrounded by his loved ones. He fought a brave battle to combat the effects of several recent strokes.
Jim was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the oldest of three boys, to Betty (Bowker) and Jack Wagner. Jim was fond of reciting the many states they called home as children: FL, OK, GA, MI, NC. It was at high school and college at Eastern Michigan University that he became involved in sports. Tall and strong, he loved it all and became adept at wrestling, football, baseball (go Braves) skiing, fishing and golf. A scratch golfer with the most beautiful swing, he’d later enjoy playing many courses in Europe and the Orient, while traveling for his business, FWK Marshall Machinery.
Jim was bigger than life, salesman extraordinaire, good looking and outgoing, he never met a stranger. He loved babies (especially his), puppies, cooking, and a good afternoon nap.
But most of all, he loved his family. He was proceeded in death by his parents and his brother Jack. Surviving are his brother Steven (Barbara), his children Ted (Kimberly), Susan (Chris), Nick (Sarah), and Allison; grandchildren Reece, Jack, Sullivan, Molly, Nia, Meryl, William, Olivia, Adam and Josie, and his partner in love and life, Galen Reuther.
Funeral service will be at 11 a.m., Friday, August 2, at St. John in the Wilderness Episcopal Church, Flat Rock, NC.
Asheville Mortuary Services is honored to serve the Wagner family.
See the original obituary HERE.