It is with sorrow and gratitude that we mark the passing of William (Bill) Wagner of Flippin, AR — sorrow at the loss, gratitude for the life.
Behind every name is a life, and behind every life are the people who loved it.
Grief is love with nowhere left to go.
William (Bill) Douglas Wagner peacefully went to be with the Lord April 29 at his home, surrounded by family, at the age of 72.Bill was born Nov 29, 1953, in Hastings MN to Paul and Thelma Wagner.Bill graduated high school in Clear Lake, Wisconsin in 1971; where he met his future wife, on the school bus. Bill and Karen were married in 1974 and had 51 years together.He then attended University of Wisconsin and Montana State University, receiving his PhD in biochemistry in 1982. He taught chemistry at UW-Stout in Menomonie WI until 1987, then taught as associate professor of chemistry for the next 23 years at Missouri State University, West Plains MO. He was a passionate educator and received the Governor's Excellence in Teaching Award in 2001. Bill and Karen resided in Flippin, Arkansas since 2017. There, as "Grampy Bill" he delighted in his grandchildren and his love of nature.He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Gretchen and brother John.Bill and Karen were blessed with two daughters, Karla Marie Bradley (Lucas) and Emily Laura Mackey. Survivors include his wife Karen, two daughters, 11 grandchildren Norah Mackey, Jenna, Samuel, William (Liam), Evelyn, Inga, Ben, Rosalyn, Cora, Beau and Laura Kate Bradley; Bill's brother Richard (Dick) Wagner, several nieces and nephews.Bill enjoyed time with his grandkids, sailing on his sailboat Pneuma at Bull Shoals Lake, tennis, pickleball, kite flying and Arkansas Rocks music. In earlier years, he was a certified scuba diver, enjoyed swimming and gymnastics. Bill will be remembered for his joyful spirit, playful nature and kind heart.The family will hold a drop-in celebration of Bill at Legacy Racquet and Fitness, 514 Coley Drive, Mountain Home, AR 72653 on May 30th, 2:00-4:00 PM. Memorials can be sent to Hospice of the Ozarks.
