Clare Joseph Wagler

WAGLER, Clare J- I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Clare Wagler passed away peacefully at Innisfree Hospice with his family at his side at the age of 74 on Monday, June 28th, 2021. Clare is survived by his loving wife Judy (Steckly) Wagler with whom he shared 50 wonderful years of marriage. Also mourning his loss are his daughters and sons-in-law, Sherry Wagler (Jamie Gaulton), Beth (Steve) Baechler, Tanya (Damon) Johnstone. Already missing their Papa are his beloved grandchildren, Sam and Alex Baechler, Jonas and Hannah Gaulton and Ethyn and Evan Johnstone. Survived by his siblings Dale (Jean) Wagler and Brenda Wagler. Loving remembered by his niece Rochelle and his nephews, Trevor, Jeremy and Ryan. Also remembered by Lyle and Marg Ellison. Predeceased by his parents Stan and Ruby (Lebold) Wagler and Judy’s parents, Ernie and Betz (Bender) Steckly. Also predeceased by his sister-in-law, Mary Ann (Steckly) Ellison and his brother-in-law Ron Steckly and Ron’s wife, Rose (Bender) Steckly. Clare was a long-time dedicated employee of Schnieder Maple Leaf Foods, winning The President’s Award in 2006 for Overall Leadership Excellence before his retirement in 2008. Never one to stay idle, after his retirement he began working for KDAC as well as volunteering as a driver for Community Care Concepts. Clare was actively involved with the Wellesley Community. For many years he was a respected coach in the Minor Hockey Association, and he was also a long-time coordinator of the apple fritter booth for the Apple Butter and Cheese Festival. Clare was a dedicated founding member of the Wellesley Mennonite Church serving in many capacities, including church treasurer, church custodian, and a church elder. Clare’s grandchildren were his pride and joy, and he could be seen at many sporting events cheering them on from the sidelines. In 2015, Clare was diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis which led to many years of health challenges, including a lung transplant. Clare always remained strong and optimistic. His strength in the face of adversity and his commitment to his family is a true testament of his character and leaves a wonderful legacy for his children and grandchildren. A drive by visitation will be held at Wellesley Mennonite Church, 157 David Street, Wellesley, on Friday from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. Please be aware that you must remain in your vehicle. Please enter from the David Street entrance, staging along David St. from Lawrence St. A private family service will be held in the church on Saturday, July 3, 2021 with interment at Rush’s Cemetery, Crosshill. Pastor Clare Lebold officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Clare's honour to Innisfree House, UHN supporting organ donations, or Wellesley Mennonite Church. Arrangement entrusted to the Futher-Franklin Funeral Home, Wellesley. www.futher-franklinfuneralhome.com The funeral service will be live streamed at 11:30 a.m. Please follow this link https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86219520656?pwd=VXl5TmVyWnNuZUkvWk1FdHNQb0dTUT09 Those who wish, you may follow the link below to make a donation to: Innisfree House www.lisaardandinnisfree.com University Health Network for organ donation www.uhnfoundation.ca

Clare Joseph Wagler

June 21, 1947 - June 28, 2021