Emil Donivan Wagner

Emil Donivan Wagner

Date of Birth: December 3, 1938
Date of Death: March 4, 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Emil Donivan Wagner, of Gainesville, Georgia, who peacefully passed on March 4, 2025 at the age of 86. Don was a beloved son, sibling, spouse, father, veteran, and friend. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Don was born on December 3, 1938, in Lancaster, Ohio to Emil Arnold Wagner and Blanche Victoria Wagner. He grew up in Lancaster and graduated from Lancaster High, Bliss College, and Ohio University, where he earned his MBA in 1979. Don served in the U.S. Army from 1961 until 1963. After graduating, Don pursued a career in accounting, retiring as Divisional Controller for Con-Agra Foods in 2004.

In 1963, Don married Roberta D. Smith, and together they had 3 children: Janet, Jeff, and Joanna. Don was a devoted grandparent and great grandparent and took immense pride in his family's achievements. He enjoyed studying history, and was known for his sharing history books with his friends. Don was an active traveler. He and Roberta visited many countries including Russia and China. He was an enthusiastic camper logging many memorable trips with family and friends.

Throughout his life, Don was actively involved in serving his community. He served on the boards of the Hall County Red Cross and the Hall County United Way. With Lions Club International, he served as President of the Gainesville Lions Club, District Governor, Treasurer of the International Pin Traders, member of North Hall Lions Club, and volunteered with the Georgia Camp for the Blind. Don was a 40+ year member of Gainesville First United Methodist Church and Aldersgate Sunday School Class. His dedication to his community was evident in everything he did, and he touched many lives through his church community’s outreach.

Don is survived by his wife, Roberta, his children, Janet Peluso (David), Jeff Wagner (Terri), Joanna Wagner, his grandchildren, Donivan Wagner, Anastasia Brain (Nathan), Gabrielle Wagner, Sophia Wagner, Olivia Wagner, Sam Lusk, and Emily Peluso, and his four great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Emil and Blanche Wagner, and his sister, Joan Wagner.

A memorial service will be held on March 8, 2025 at 11:00 am in the chapel of Gainesville First United Methodist Church. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Georgia Lions Camp, Inc 5626 Laura Walker Rd, Waycross, Ga 31503 or charity of your choice in Don’s memory.

The family thanks Pruitt Health Hospice for their exceptional care during Don’s final days.

We will always remember Don for his love and dedication to his family and community. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Memorial Park Riverside Chapel, 989 Riverside Drive Gainesville, GA, 30501. 770-297-6200.

For online condolences www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com