William Claude Wagner 1925-2005

William Claude Wagner, son of the late William Edmund and Lennie C. (Schultz) Wagner, was born December 27, 1925 in Trebune, Pulaski County, Missouri where he grew up and attended school.

William served his country in the United States Navy and was honorably discharged for his faithful service.

On March 2, 1995, William was united in marriage to Opal Lee Morrow in Miami, Oklahoma. They shared over 10 years together and many happy memories.

William was a self-employed truck driver. He was an old fashioned person, where he believed that people should be hard working, which he was. More than anything, he enjoyed talking and visiting with family and friends. He was a great storyteller. Whether the stories were true or not, one would have to guess.

William passed away the morning of Wednesday, May 18, 2005 in his home at the age of 79 years, 4 months and 21 days.

William will be sadly missed, but fondly remembered by his wife, Opal of the home; four sons: Dale Wagner of Springfield, MO, Gary Wagner of the State of Illinois and Michael and Terry Wagner, both of St. Louis, MO; two daughters: Sherri Pruss of Palm Dale, CA and Gloria Mitchell of San Diego, CA; one sister: Lettie Mae Williams of Crocker, MO; one brother Marion Wagner of Denver, CO; three grandchildren; several other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, William was preceded in death by three sisters: Dora Kinnaird, Emma Gaddy and Opal Phillips, and four brothers: Floyd, John, Ben & Vic Wagner.

Funeral services were held at 2:00 P.M. Friday, May 20 at Waynesville Memorial Chapel with Rev. Richard Breeden officiating. "Amazing Grace" and "How Great Thou Art" were played. Dave Gaddy, Elster Kinnaird, Dale Lemp, Marion and Tom Wagner and Bill Willoughby served as escorts.

Burial followed in Waynesville Memorial Park Cemetery, with the U.S. Navy providing military honors. Services were under direction of Waynesville Memorial Chapel.