Edward J. Van Wagner, 71
MARTINDALE, N.Y. — Edward Joseph Van Wagner of Martindale, N.Y., passed away peacefully on Nov. 11, 2017, due to complications brought on by his lung disease. During his brief hospitalization he was surrounded by his beloved family and many wonderful friends.
He was predeceased by his parents, Jay and Alice Van Wagner, and his son, Ted Edward Van Wagner.
He is survived by two brothers, Dan Van Wagner and his wife Roslyn and Fred Van Wagner and his wife Edith; two sisters, Alice Scott and her husband Dan Scott and Lois Van Wagner; his three daughters, Sarah Braley her husband Jeff Braley, Ruth Van Wagner, and Laura Puff and her husband Tom Puff; his son Dr. John Van Wagner and wife Julianna Van Wagner; 16 grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was born on July 9, 1946, in Sherburne, N.Y. and raised on his parents’ dairy farm. He graduated from Sherburne Central High School in 1964 and graduated with his associate degree at SUNY Morrisville in Applied Science on June 12, 1966.
He was married to Donna Marie Sbaraglia-Wilson on November 12, 1966, and they had five children together. His early career began at Norwich Pharmaceuticals. In 1972 he relocated to his current residence and began his career as a civil servant. He retired as manager of New York State Department of Labor in Hudson, N.Y., after 29 years of service. During his retirement he enjoyed time with his family and friends and was known for his annual clam bake traditions, his sportsman’s club activities and his ammo sales business, which was sympathetically run at a loss. He will be remembered by those who loved him as a caring, generous soul who would always leave you with a smile. “Remember the good times.”
Funeral notice: As per his wishes his family is honoring his memory with a celebration of life party at the Vanderbilt Inn, Philmont, N.Y., on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2017, from 4 to 7 p.m. All those who knew him are welcome to come and raise a glass in his memory. He wished to be cremated and his ashes will be buried on Friday the 17th back at the farm next to Teddy.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Philmont Rod and Gun Club Youth Programs. Donations may be sent c/o Finnerty & Stevens Funeral Home, 426 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA 01230.