Obituaries

Robert “Bob” C. Wagner, 54 years young and a lifelong Old Forge resident, died peacefully Saturday morning at Allied Hospice in Wilkes-Barre following a courageous six year battle with brain cancer, all the while fighting the disease with the same positive attitude, humility and humor he possessed his entire life.
He is survived by the love of his life, caregiver, best friend and wife of 28 years, Sherri A. (Peck) Wagner, and his two adored children of whom he was so proud, Joshua and Madison Wagner.
Bob’s life story began on February 22, 1969. Son of the late Albert C. and Claire (Schmidt) Wagner, he was a 1987 graduate of Old Forge High School. His work ethic was tireless and his career began as the co-owner and operator alongside his brother of Wagner’s Hauling and Landscaping Services before serving as the maintenance supervisor for Allied Services in Scranton. In 2009, Bob ventured off to begin Bob Wagner Electrician, LLC, soon becoming the go-to electrician for the Old Forge borough and beyond. Fair, honest and efficient, his services never went unnoticed as he was continually voted the “Best Electrician” year after year after year (although you’d never hear this from Bob). He never considered those who hired him customers, but moreso his extended family helping him to forge countless deep relationships over the course of his career.
His quick wit and sarcastic humor was legendary, even during the worst of his illness. He had a love/hate relationship with his dogs the same as his love/hate relationship with his rental apartments. He was a member of the Union Lodge No. 291 of Scranton and also an Eagle Scout, along with his son. He loved wing nights with his friends and amassing an awesome antique car collection throughout the years.
His work ethic was admirable and providing for his family was always paramount within his priorities. He was a loving husband and amazing father who always remained involved in his children’s lives.
Chances are Bob Wagner was your electrician, a friend, or even someone who just made you smile through a simple conversation. His engaging personality and incredible humor will make him impossible to never forget but easy to forever love.
Bob is survived by his beloved family, including his wife, Sherri; children, Joshua Wagner and wife Victoria of Williamsburg, VA and Madison Wagner of Old Forge; a grandson, Graham Wagner; siblings, Richard Wagner of Old Forge and Sherri L. Wagner of Lehighton; his aunt, Audrey Cecchetelli of Scranton; and nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by a nephew, Adam Stanton.
Bob’s family expresses the deepest gratitude to all of those so supportive to Bob throughout his illness including Drs. Armando Sallavanti and Kishori Veerabhadrappa, the entire teams of both Allied Hospice and Thomas Jefferson Hospital and beyond anyone else, the entire community of family and friends, especially Audrey, whose love and support remained unwavering throughout the past six years.
A Celebration of Bob’s Life is scheduled for 4:30 PM on Saturday at the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home Inc., 517 N. Main St., Old Forge, with services conducted by both Rev. George Matthews and the Masonic Lodge #291 F&AM. Family and friends may pay their respects on Saturday from 2:00 PM until services at the funeral home.