Michael Edward Wagener passed on July 4, 2026, at the age of 60, at his home in Falmouth, Virginia. Michael was born on March 7, 1966, in St. Louis, Missouri, the son of Richard and Mary Lou (Gartner) Wagener.

Mike grew up in Dubuque, Iowa. He graduated from Stephen Hempstead High School in 1984, a bright student with a knack for math, student government, and a little study hall mischief. He attended Iowa State University, graduating in 1990 with a degree in computer science. His passion for math naturally evolved into exceptional programming skills, and he was always one step ahead when it came to the latest technology.

Ever creative, Mike could often be found tinkering, building, or working on inventing something new. He loved rock and roll music, the electric guitar, and motorcycles, especially Harley Davidsons. He embraced opportunities for adventure and thrill, whether skiing down a mountain or riding the fastest roller coasters. Mike was proud of his rebellious streak and was always a leader, never a follower.

But even greater than his love of these many hobbies was Mike’s deep and enduring love for his family. The memories he cherished most were not defined by adventure alone, but by the people who shared them—from canoe trips, Michigan summers, and big family gatherings to the simple joy of solving puzzles, playing games, and laughing together. Mike was a devoted father to Meg (Cait), Abby, lan (Gracie), Emma, and Elyse, and former stepfather to Kayla (Colton); a proud grandfather to Ellie; a beloved brother to Kari (Keith), Linda, and Tom (Yabi), and a cherished uncle to many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces. In addition to these family members, Mike is also survived by his former wives, Maria (Pat) and Kate. Their shared love for the family they built together will always remain a lasting part of his legacy.

Like every family, ours experienced both joys and hardships. The last few years of Mike’s life were marked by struggles with his mental health, and this illness slowly took Mike away from us long before his death did. While those struggles often overshadowed the man we knew, they never changed how much he meant to us or how dearly he was loved. Although many things in his life changed over the years, one thing never did: his love for his family. Even through all of his challenges, he loved us above all else, and he knew that he was loved and cherished beyond measure.

Mike loved to wonder about the great mysteries of life—who else is out there, what came before, what comes after, and where our journey continues. While we wish he could share those answers with us, wherever his journey has taken him, we hope he has found peace.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Mike’s children to help support them as they navigate this difficult time together: https://gofund.me/d029b25fb