Thomas A. Wagner

    Thomas A. Wagner, age 83, of Paradise, Texas, passed away on April 6, 2026, at Harris Methodist Hospital, Fort Worth, Texas.

     Tom is survived by his wife, Patricia L. Wagner, and two sons: Jeff of Choctaw, Oklahoma and Joe of Lewisville, Texas.  Tom joins his beloved daughter, Messina Wagner Wilkins, whom he missed deeply.  He also had 5 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

    Born in Shippenville, on February 5, 1943, he was one of 10 children to Paul and Marion Wagner.   Tom is survived by brothers: Bob, John, Jake, Ronny, Jerry, George, and sister Betty.  He was preceded in death by brothers, Eddie and Roger. 

     He was a beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather, friend, and community member. Tom was known for his unwavering kindness, a strong moral compass, and deep devotion to his family and friends. He brought warmth and wisdom to every conversation, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

    Tom enjoyed “tinkering” in electronics by fixing TVs for friends and neighbors over the years.  He embraced new technology and always seemed to have an idea to bounce off his son, Joe, before the two of them went to the store to see his plan through.  He enjoyed camping trips with his brothers where they created and shared new experiences and embellished on old ones.  He loved taking his sons fishing when they were young, with nothing more than a frying pan for the fish they caught and an occasional can of beans, so Jeff and Joe did not come home hungry. Tom was always the first to raise his hand when a neighbor or family needed help.  His actions spoke louder than words. He cherished moments spent with loved ones, and his stories—filled with humor and adventure—will live on in our memories.

     Tom served in the United States Air Force for 22 years. Throughout his life, Tom embodied the core values of the Air Force: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do. He did a tour in Vietnam 1970 - 1971.  He started as an aircraft mechanic but became interested in electronics and shifted his career to airborne communication where he excelled in radio communication.  After he left active duty, Tom initially worked for multiple defense contractors before landing his final job with the DEA working on airborne communication.  He specialized in radio communication, becoming known as one of the best in the field within DEA.

     Graveside Military Honors will be accorded by the Clarion American Legion Post #066 at 11 a.m., Friday, April 17, 2026 at the St. Michael Cemetery, 18765 Route 208, Fryburg.

     Online condolences may be sent to Tom’s family at www.rupertfuneralhomes.com