Encyclopedia Dubuque
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WAGNER, James: Difference between revisions
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As word got out about Jim's willingness to help, his garage quickly became too small. Jim teamed up with his best friend, Al Rowell, to advocate for all veterans and they soon saw a need for a space that was larger and open regular hours to encourage the comradery that our vets were needing. The larger space became the [[DUBUQUE VETERANS' FREEDOM CENTER]]. Wagner and his best friend Al Rowell, co-founded the [[DUBUQUE VETERANS' FREEDOM CENTER]]. The center which became his legacy offered a place for area vets to meet for coffee and/of work on a variety of wood and metal projects. Wagner also helped organize outings for those who liked to fish a day's outing and boats. He also planned rallies and events to benefit veterans. He was a constant presence at the Center and enjoyed taking visitors around the facility to demonstrate its many offerings. | As word got out about Jim's willingness to help, his garage quickly became too small. Jim teamed up with his best friend, Al Rowell, to advocate for all veterans and they soon saw a need for a space that was larger and open regular hours to encourage the comradery that our vets were needing. The larger space became the [[DUBUQUE VETERANS' FREEDOM CENTER]]. Wagner and his best friend Al Rowell, co-founded the [[DUBUQUE VETERANS' FREEDOM CENTER]]. The center which became his legacy offered a place for area vets to meet for coffee and/of work on a variety of wood and metal projects. Wagner also helped organize outings for those who liked to fish a day's outing and boats. He also planned rallies and events to benefit veterans. He was a constant presence at the Center and enjoyed taking visitors around the facility to demonstrate its many offerings. | ||
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Latest revision as of 19:48, 28 December 2025
WAGNER, James (Hazel Green, WI, lMay 12, 1948--Dubuque, IA, Jan. 26, 2025) Jim was the son of Lloyd and Marie (Neyens) Wagner.He attended Sacred Heart School and DUBUQUE SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL. Jim married, Cheri Ludowitz, on August 24, 1968 at ST. MARY'S CATHOLIC CHURCH in Dubuque and was drafted into the U.S. Army during the VIETNAM WAR from 1968 to 1970. He was life-long resident of Dubuque and worked as a salesman for Myers-Cox for over 30 years.
Jim was a proud veteran and was a proud member of St. Patrick's Church, Tri-State Vietnam Vets, the American Legion and the DAV. Like many, Jim has struggles over the years and an understanding of the struggles of others in similar situations. He made others comfortable enough to open up to him. Jim always had an ear or a shoulder available to anyone in need. He recognized a need that was not being met for fellow veterans and began welcoming them to his tiny garage workshop. People would stop by for a chat, to say hello or use him as a sounding board for any situation.
As word got out about Jim's willingness to help, his garage quickly became too small. Jim teamed up with his best friend, Al Rowell, to advocate for all veterans and they soon saw a need for a space that was larger and open regular hours to encourage the comradery that our vets were needing. The larger space became the DUBUQUE VETERANS' FREEDOM CENTER. Wagner and his best friend Al Rowell, co-founded the DUBUQUE VETERANS' FREEDOM CENTER. The center which became his legacy offered a place for area vets to meet for coffee and/of work on a variety of wood and metal projects. Wagner also helped organize outings for those who liked to fish a day's outing and boats. He also planned rallies and events to benefit veterans. He was a constant presence at the Center and enjoyed taking visitors around the facility to demonstrate its many offerings.
Source:
1. Behr's Funeral Home. https://www.behrfuneralhome.com/obituaries/James-J-Jim-Wagner?obId=35100814