Eugene Michael Wagner ("Gene")

Eugene Michael Wagner (“Gene”), 86, of Hendersonville, North Carolina passed away on September 29, 2022. He was born on January 14, 1936, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic to parents Michael Ambrose and Frances Bingham Wagner. He attended secondary schools in St. Petersburg, Florida, and also St. Petersburg Junior College. He then served in the US Army before graduating from the University of Florida in 1959 and receiving a post-graduate degree from the School of Banking of the South at Louisiana State University. He worked in banking and finance for 22 years before moving to Hendersonville and opening two manufactured housing sales centers and later managing several RV resorts.

Gene was dedicated to the communities in which he lived. He served on the boards of the Elks Club, YMCA, and the Chamber of Commerce while living in Florida. The chamber board named him an “Outstanding Young Man of America”. He was a long-time member of Kiwanis and served as President. He actively donated blood to the American Red Cross for many years, donating dozens of gallons to help save lives. His smile and winsome demeanor provided him with many lifelong friends, and even quickly developed friendships with many of the nurses and therapists who participated in his care in recent months when he was unable to communicate fully as he wished.

Gene was married and is survived by his wife of 57 years, Lucretia (“Lu”). They enjoyed traveling in the United States and Canada and took numerous trips to Europe and the Caribbean. In addition, Gene is survived by his two sons, Michael Anthony (Grace) and John Michael, as well as his daughter Susan Michelle Lane (Ricky). His three grandchildren, Rebecca Faith, Richard Michael, and Zoe Grace Lane gave him much joy.

A celebration of life is planned for the future. In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, or a charity of your choice are welcomed.