In Memory of

Lawrence

Wagner

Obituary for Lawrence Wagner

Lawrence Elbert Wagner, age 82, of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away Friday, March 3, 2023, at his home.

He was born on November 13, 1940, in Jefferson City, Mo., the son of George Louis and Lena Mae (Madden) Wagner. He was married on March 30, 1974, in Jefferson City, Mo., to Judith Ann “Judy” West who survives.

As a lifelong resident of Jefferson City, Lawrence was a 1959 graduate of Jefferson City High School.

After completing his education, Lawrence began working for Wagner Plumbing, a company started by his father which he later took ownership of. He operated the family business until 1982 when he decided to close Wagner Plumbing and take a position with Ron Boyce Plumbing. In 1986 he began working with J & T Plumbing until 1991 and then finally retired in 2006 from Tallmage Plumbing in Columbia, Mo., as a Master Plumber.

Lawrence was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the United States Bowling Congress.

Much of his life was spent loving and supporting his family. He cherished the times on the Osage River in the pontoon boat, vacationing on a beach in Florida, and fondly reminisced a two week road trip taken with his wife to many national parks across various states. He thrived in nature and particularly liked the mountains.

In his free time, Lawrence enjoyed working in his shop and creating different pieces of furniture or home décor. His talent for woodworking was exhibited in his ability to take a idea from a magazine and build it himself. The family home is a showcase of countless pieces of furniture and other household items crafted by Lawrence. He enjoyed time outdoors whether it was time spent in his garden, or in a stream fishing. Even on the hottest summer days, he could be found sitting outside under the shade tree soaking in the summer heat.

Even though Lawrence loved watching all kinds of sports he was a true and faithful fan of the Kansas City Chiefs, St. Louis Cardinals, and NASCAR, which he was sure to record in case he missed it. Lawrence was an avid reader and watched assorted westerns, Wheel of Fortune, and Law and Order. He also could be found throwing strikes during his local bowling tournaments and has won numerous awards throughout his bowling career.

Lawrence will be most remembered for his ornery nature and playful sense of humor.

He is survived by: his loving wife of 48 years, Judy; children, Russell Wagner (Michelle) of Jamestown, Mo., Aaron Wagner of Jefferson City, Mo., and Scott West (Gina) of Jefferson City, Mo.; brother, Ralph Wagner of St. Peter’s Mo.; sister-in-law, Nona Wagner of Jefferson City, Mo.; grandchildren, Zachary (Cassandra), Morgan (Josh), Kylie, Hadley, Adysyn, Braydon and Cruz; and great-grandchildren Shelby, Liam, Mateo, Austin, Wesley and Trenton.

He is preceded in death by: his parents, George and Lena; brother, William Madden, George C. Wagner; and sister-in-law, Carol Wagner.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m., Thursday, March 9, 2023, at Freeman Mortuary.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, March 9, 2023, in the Freeman Chapel with graveside services and interment to follow at Hawthorn Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the St. Joseph's Indian School by mailing condolences to P.O. Box 95, Jefferson City, Mo 65101.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary, 915 Madison St, Jefferson City, MO 65101.