He began his career with Cox as a graphic artist at the Oxford Press in June 2000.
He then transferred to the Hamilton JournalNews in May 2003 before joining the graphic artist team in its move to Cox’s Southwest Group office in Liberty Twp. in early 2008.
Prior to joining Cox, Mr. Wagner married his wife, Diane, in 1982 and they had five children: Nathaniel, Elizabeth, Seth, Matthew and Jacob.
Vicky Flannery, a graphic artist with Cox who worked alongside Mr. Wagner, said he was a talented artist and loving father who cared about people.
“He was the most honest, dependable person I have ever had the privilege of knowing. He would give you the shirt off his back, if it meant helping someone in need out,” she said.
Flannery said he also was a very religious man.
“He would always help me when I had a problem. He would say that he would pray for me, and he did. I think he had a direct line to God,” she said.
Sharon Smith, also a graphic artist with Cox Media, said Mr. Wagner touched everyone he came in contact with.
“John was not a giant man in stature, but he sure left a big impression on those that knew him,” she said.
A visitation for Mr. Wagner will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. today, Dec. 4, at Webb Noonan Funeral Home, 240 Ross Ave., Hamilton.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at Home Avenue First Church of God, 426 E. Home Ave., Trenton; visitation will be held prior to the service at 9 a.m. at the church.
Memorial contributions may be given to a fund for the family at any First Financial Bank, Attn: John Wagner/Diane Wagner Family Fund.
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