RICHARD H. WAGNER

Richard H. Wagner, 74, of Lyons, died Jan. 1, 2012, at his residence. He was born on Aug. 20, 1937, in Burlington, to the late Robert and Elizabeth (Heintskill) Wagner.

He spent his early life in Burlington and was a graduate of St. Mary’s High School. Dick proudly served in the National Guard.

On April 9, 1958, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Lyons, he married Roberta “Bobbie” Ruedebusch. Together they have made their home in Lyons since 1960.  Dick was an airline pilot for 27 years. He and his wife founded and owned Wag-Aero in Lyons. In 1978 they established a non-profit foundation with the purpose of promoting aviation, supporting humanitarian programs throughout the world, and preserving historical buildings and artifacts.

Survivors include his loving wife; daughters, Marcy (Ken) Essman, Julie (Bob) O’Neill; grandchildren, Adam (Claire) Essman, Emily (Adam) LaBadie, Abbey (Connor McKay) Essman, Meghan (Jason Leden) O’Neill, Melissa (Bryn) Doyle, Marci (Jeff) Rueter and Molly (Dustin Elsbury) O’Neill; great-grandchildren, Keira Doyle and Eli Richard LaBadie; siblings, Bob Jr. (Elaine) Wagner, Jim Wagner, John Wagner, Joel Wagner, Margie (Mark) Johnston, Bill (Jean) Wagner; in-laws, Ruth (Lon) Behrens, Rita (Mike) Pechacek, Pat Ruedebusch, Rollie (Anne) Ruedebusch, Becky (David) Uhen, Mary (Jeff) Peterson; nieces; nephews; other relatives and friends.

He was further preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Bob and Marcella Ruedebusch and by brother-in-law and fellow pilot, Dick Ruedebusch.

There will be a Memorial Mass on Thursday, Jan. 5, at 7 p.m., at St. Charles Catholic Church with Rev. Steve Amann officiating. Honoring Dick’s request, there will be no wake prior to the Mass, nor a reception following the Mass. The family thanks you for understanding and will welcome written condolences. Schuette-Daniels Funeral Home & Crematory, Burlington, is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Wagner Foundation to continue the many programs which he and Bobbie initiated, and have been so passionate about.