Neil Wagner

(From Lakin Funeral Home)

Neil Richard Wagner, age 77, of Granby, Missouri, passed away on Monday, April 6, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri, with family by his side. Neil was born on July 25, 1948, in Joplin, Missouri, the son of Frederick and Bernice (Kutz) Wagner. He graduated from Sarcoxie High School in 1966 and soon after proudly joined the United States Army. Neil served his country during the Vietnam War, completing four military campaigns and attaining the rank of Technical Sergeant. On July 11, 1970, Neil married the love of his life, LouAnn (Cole) Wagner, in Monett, Missouri. Together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and a whole lot of laughter.

Neil spent his career working for Burlington Northern Railroad and later the Missouri Department of Transportation, where he eventually retired. But retirement didn’t slow him down—not one bit. Neil always had something going on. Many days were happily spent out on the farm with his dog Chloe by his side. Whether he was farming, piddling with tractors and equipment, or driving a semi-truck with his grandson, Neil’s “work” was really just another way to spend time with the people—and—animals he loved. 

Neil never knew a stranger, and if you met him, you never quite knew what he was going to say next. He had a quick wit, a sharp sense of humor, and always a joke or story ready to go. He loved visiting over coffee, breakfast, or lunch—or any excuse to sit and talk awhile. In his quieter moments, Neil enjoyed fishing, farming, and watching or participating in tractor pulls. More than anything, he enjoyed being with others, making connections, and sharing a laugh.

Neil will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the many people whose lives were brighter simply because they knew him.

His memory remains in the hearts of his two daughters, Heather Wilson of Joplin, Missouri, and Amanda Gentry (Darrel) of Duenweg, Missouri; five grandchildren, Taylor Schooling (Heather),Maddie de Guzman (Charles), Logan Lakin, Cole Wilson, and Derrick Wagner; one great-grandson, Cedar Schooling; one brother, David Wagner; and many other family members and friends.

Those who preceded Neil in death include his parents, Frederick and Bernice Wagner; his beloved wife, LouAnn Wagner; his son, Jeff Wagner; his brother, Martin Wagner; and his sister, Dorothy Witt. 

The family will receive friends at Lakin Funeral Home in Pierce City, MO on Sunday, April 12, 2026, from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM. Rosary service will begin at 4:00 PM.

Funeral Mass will be at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Sarcoxie, MO on Monday, April 13, 2026, beginning at 10:00 AM with Father Joseph Weidenbenner officiating. Burial, with full Military Honors, will follow at St. Agnes Catholic Cemetery in Sarcoxie, MO.

Memorials may be made to the Jeff Wagner Memorial Golf Tournament in care of the funeral home. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Lakin Funeral Home in Pierce City, MO.