Charles "Charlie" William Wagner

Charles “Charlie” William Wagner, 73, of Glouster, passed away Saturday, April 5, 2014 in Albany. He was born June 19, 1940 in Wintersville, son of the late William K. and Freda Clair Carper Wagner.

Charles went to school at Amesville High School and graduated from Ohio University with a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering.  Charles was an Officer in the United States Navy and served honorably as a pilot in the Vietnam War.  He was given numerous commendations and acknowledgements for his skills as an aviator and jet flight instructor.  He went on to fly for National, Pan American and Delta Airlines.  In 31 years of service and over a million miles flown, Captain Charlie Wagner safely delivered his passengers to their friends and family around the world.   He retired with distinction from the commercial airline industry in 2001to return to his beloved farm.  From the day he hung up his Captain’s hat, he worked tirelessly on his farm growing crops and caring for his animals.  He continued to fly for the pure joy of it in his Bellanca SuperViking.  On April 5 ^th , Charlie lost his life maneuvering his malfunctioning aircraft to an unpopulated area.  Even during this last flight, he maintained his impeccable flying record, protecting people and property on the ground.

He left this earth doing what he loved most.

Charles is survived by his son, Kevin (Susanne) Wagner of Atlanta, GA.; daughter, Kellee Wagner of Atlanta, GA.; precious grandchildren, Jenna and Jackie Wagner; sisters, Deborah Keirns of Glouster and Betty Wells of McConnelsville; nephew, Brent (Carol) Poches; great-nephew, Josh Poches and his dear friend and companion, Frances Long of Glouster.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, April 12, 2014 at the Cardaras Funeral Home, 30 Main St., Glouster with Steve Hays officiating. Interment will take place at the Wagner Family Cemetery, Glouster where a military graveside service will be conducted by the Combined Color Guard Unit. Friends may call Friday, from 4-8 PM at the funeral home.

Memorials and sentiment may be shared on the Facebook page of Susanne Mintz Wagner.

Please sign his online guestbook at www.cardaras.com