William Rudolph "Red" Wagner (1891-1962)

WAGNER, HORSTMAN, BUTTS, MORGAN, PINGEL

Posted By: jane austin (email)
Date: 6/12/2021 at 21:05:24

William (Red) Wagner, long time Mayor and active citizen of Hartley was taken in death suddenly on August 13th. Actively directing the work in his cafe, he died as he lived, always busy and always serving others.

Mr. Wagner came to this community with his bride of a few weeks, Velma Horstman, and immediately set up a cafe business. Shortly after his first endeavor, he purchased the building which thereafter he used as a cafe for forty-nine years. It was a popular place for his many friends and customers, who rejoiced in the happy atmosphere over a cup of coffee. He was assisted in his business throughout the years by his wife.

Red was a constant and constructive booster for Hartley. He was always found on the side of progress and betterment whatever the cost. The citizens honored his interest and ability by electing him to the office of Mayor for twelve successive years. Many improvements were initiated and completed during his years on the community council. After retirement from his office he was immediately placed on the hospital board. His many years of experience made his participation invaluable during those first years of hospital direction in Hartley.

Mr. Wagner was an active member of the Chamber of Commerce during the years. He served it as president and chairman and member of many committees. He continutally used his every effort to promote the welfare of the community.

Because of his membership in Beacon Lodge and in the Shrine, he was honored with graveside service by his Masonic Brethren.

He was a faithful member of the Trinity United Church of Christ, serving it as a member of the many boards and of the Brotherhood. He was a member of the choir as long as most members can remember. He was continually requested to sing as a member of a duet, quartet or choir at many functions and particularly at funeral services for his many friends. He didn't know how to say no, and gladly did that which he felt he could do for those who shared his years. He was a member of the choir when he died.

Hartley has lost a very able citizen and good friend with the death of Red Wagner. He was an optimistic and generous characther who gave spirit to every gathering he shared.

The funeral service was concudted by his pastor, the Rev. R.G. Beck in Trinity United Church of Christ. Members of Beacon Lodge 495 held graveside services. The Baumgarten Funeral Home had charge of and assisted in all the services.

Mr. Wagner is survived by his wife, Mrs. Velma Wagner; two sons, Dr. L.W. Wagner of Austin, Minnesota, and Mr. Kent Wagner of Hartley, Iowa; two grandchildren, Mrs. Jerry Butts of Oskaloosa, Iowa and William Wagner of Austin Minnesota; three brothers, Albert Wagner of Wheatland, Iowa, and Louie and Otto Wagner of Hartley, Iowa; two sisters, Mrs. Weller Morgan, and Mrs. Anna Pingel of Wheatland, Iowa.

Services ere held Thursday, August 16, with interment at Pleasant View Cemetery, Hartley.

Hartley (Iowa) Sentinel, 23 Aug 1962, p11