Gary Edward Wagner

Gary Edward Wagner, 86, of Bedford, Indiana, passed away on March 11, 2026, at his home. Born on June 28, 1940, in Salem, Illinois, he was the son of the late Carroll and Clarabelle (Williams) Wagner. Gary graduated from Eastern Illinois University in Charleston with a degree in Zoology.

A gifted athlete, Gary played professional baseball as a right-handed pitcher in the Major Leagues for the Philadelphia Phillies and the Boston Red Sox from 1965 to 1972. After retiring from baseball, he traveled the country working in environmental remediation and cleanup, contributing to numerous Superfund projects. He later served as Safety Director for the City of Seymour before his final retirement. A man of Christian faith, Gary was an avid golfer who cherished his time on the course at Otter Creek Golf Course.

Gary married Freddie Jean Jackson on December 23, 1961, in Bridgeport, Illinois, and she survives him in Bedford. He is also survived by his three sons, Gary L. Wagner, Sean A. Wagner, and Craig E. Wagner; seven grandchildren, Stefan, Joi Mei, Kelley, Gary E., Hunter, Grant, and Jackson; a brother, Tommy; and a sister, Kay. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, James and Mike Wagner.