Gerald (Jerry) Leroy Wagner passed away as a result of a cardiac event on Monday, August 11, 2025 at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. He was 82.

He was the son of the late Percy, "Jeff" and Meryl Kocher Wagner. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings: Beverly and Keith in infancy and brothers Robert in 1987 and Richard in 2023. Surviving are sisters: Elaine Zuba, Dallas, PA; Bonnie Bowdoin, Alexandria, VA; Glenda Akers, Burkburnett, TX; Michelle DePaul, Huntingdon, PA; Cheryl Land, Philadelphia, PA. Surviving are brothers: Tim, Harvey's Lake, PA; Lynn, Dallas, PA; Donald, Pompton Lakes, NJ; Kevin, Larksville, PA. Gerald was also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Jerry was a graduate of Lake-Lehman High School, class of 1961 and then served more than 15 years as a proud Navy Storekeeper while in Vietnam performing "counterinsurgency" work. He also served aboard Naval Air Stations Quonset Point and Bermuda and aboard the USS Procyon (AF-61), USS Vulcon (AR-5), USS John King (DDG-3).

After leaving the Navy, he worked with the military Sealift Command serving aboard the USNS Hayes (TAGOR16). He then worked more than 20 years for Newport News Shipbuilding. Eventually, Jerry returned to Dallas, PA. In addition to his awards and medals for his Navy service, he was awarded the Republic of Vietnam Technical Service Honor Medals, which were rarely awarded to foreigners.

For over a decade, beginning in 1998, Jerry's passion for car racing went full speed ahead when he became a supporter and sponsor of Rainbow Racing all over the East Coast. Jerry was there along with his "racing family," for every milestone from Bud Kenny's first win to their triumphant Coastal Plains Championship in 2002.

Jerry loved antiquing, flea marketing, going to his favorite casino in Atlantic City, NJ, attending sporting events with his late brother-in-law Joe, fishing with his family at Lake George, NY, and vacationing at the Outer Banks, NC with niece Belinda and her family.

A memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family. Burial arrangements are made by Curtis L. Swanson Funeral Home, Inc., Hunlock Creek, PA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity in loving memory of Gerald L. Wagner.

Arrangements are by the Curtis L. Swanson Funeral Home, Inc., corner of routes 29 and 118, Pikes Creek.

Online condolences can be made at clswansonfuneralhome.com