Welp, Babe…looks like we now know your entire story. How many times did we discuss this topic?Countless! We pondered the future, who would outlive whom, and how that would look and feel for the
surviving spouse. Unfortunately, you were right…your full story was written before mine…and let me tell
ya, my heart is breaking, the grief is overwhelming, and there’s an important piece of me that is now
completely missing…just as I predicted. You have such a beautiful story to share, though…with twists and
turns that made life worth living…that made MY life worth living, too! It officially began on March 1, 1974,
when your parents (Rick and Rosemary [Weddle] Wagner) welcomed you into this world to meet your big
brother (Scott Wagner) and, sadly, unexpectedly ended on July 21, 2024.
You were so lucky to have grown up in the cozy little town of Farmland, Indiana. Man, you created some fun memories there, and you built awesome, solid friendships along the way. I loved lounging around with you on lazy days, listening to your stories about growing up, about great friends, and about your Grandma Mary Jo. It was my favorite thing to do! Although we both went to Monroe Central, it felt like we lived
worlds apart. Your stories brought me into your world…little by little…page after page. Thank you, Babe!
When we got together, I’m not sure many people thought we’d last…but, Baby, we did it! 25 years of
marriage! It’s amazing how our love actually grew year after year. Over time, you became my rock, my
safe place, my confidant, my best friend, my peace, my calm, and my joy. My life was better because you
were fully and completely mine…as I was fully and completely yours!
We were so fortunate for your job at General Motors. (Thank you to Doug for the application 24 years ago…he absolutely changed our lives!) Babe, you worked so hard to provide for our family while allowing
me to take care of our home and to raise and homeschool our son, Azaria, and our daughter, Liliana.
Those moments were priceless, and I will forever be grateful to you for our kiddos…and for your
dedication to being the sole provider for our family.
You have so many friends and so much family still here that I will miss you beyond measure. I imagine
their grief is mirroring mine, Azaria’s, Liliana’s, and, of course, your parents’. However, I know your
buddy, Steve, is waitin’ for ya on the other side…so go and enjoy some laughs and crazy antics with him!
Give your Grandma Mary Jo a huge hug and have a nice, long chat with her. I know how much you
missed her and how you always wished she was still around to enjoy more time together. Now’s your
chance! Soak it up!
I’ll be seein’ ya soon enough. When I get there, scoop me up and twirl me around like no one’s watchin’.
That’s the best feeling in the world! Be ready to snuggle! You know how warm, secure, and loved that
always made us feel. I expect some good stories too! Who knows? I may throw in a good ol’ foot rub for
ya just because I’ll miss you more than there are stars in the sky!
I’m keeping my promise that there won’t be an official service. Instead, I’ll personally invite some family
and friends to join us in sharing fun stories of you while enjoying delicious cheeseburgers straight from
the grill. Doesn’t get better than that, Babe…am I right?!? It’s been such an honor lovin’ ya, Baby! Truly!
You’re my heart!
Until my story’s complete,
Shantell
Ferguson-Lee Chapel of Thorne—George Family Funeral Homes in Bedford, Indiana, has been entrusted with the arrangements for Michael Andrew Wagner.
Condolences may be shared at www.FergusonLee.com
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