Loren James Wagner

Loren James Wagner, 86, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family, after a life well lived and deeply loved.

Loren was born on April 6, 1939, in Havelock, Iowa to George and Blanche (Hotovec) Wagner. He grew up in a large and close-knit family, one of seven children, where faith, hard work, and love of family were deeply rooted values-values he carried throughout his life.

After graduating from Iowa State University, Loren proudly served his country in the United States Army. He went on to work as an accountant and tax preparer, but his entrepreneurial spirit led him to start and run several of his own businesses. Whether it was in business, family, or faith, Loren gave his full heart and commitment to everything he did.

On April 19, 1969, Loren married his best friend and the love of his life, Rosalita (Peiffer) Wagner. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, faith, and family. Their marriage was a beautiful partnership of 56 years, and their love was evident to all who knew them. Through their union, they were blessed with four children: Paul, Randy, Christina, and Maria. Loren was a devoted and loving father, and later, an adoring Opa. His children and grandchildren were a treasured joy in his life.

Loren was preceded in death by his son, Paul; his parents; his brothers, Dick Wagner (and Dick’s wife, Geri) and Virgil Wagner; his sisters, Madonna Kakacek (and her husband, Louie); his sister, Kathleen Specht (and her husband, Don); his brother -in-law Martin Phelan; and a dear nephew, Doug Wagner.

He is survived by his loving wife Rosie; his children, Randy Wagner, Christina Reaman and her husband Edward, Maria White and her husband Mike. Also, two sisters, Mary Lee Phelan, and Juanita (Greg) McCabe.

Loren was the proud Opa to Kayla (Ben), Andrew (Skylar), Emily, Ryan, Jack, Ethan (Olivia), Thomas, Abigail (Izet), Caleb, Ben, Kylie, Michael Jr. (Shaeyla), Sharlea (Gavin), Brooklyn, and Cathleena. Loren was also blessed with great grandchildren, Aria, Rosalia, Nevaeh, Owen, Nayeli, Lorezio, Octavia and Eleanor.

His love for his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was deep and enduring, and he took great pride in watching his family grow through the generations.

In addition to his immediate family Loren has many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will remember him with great love and affection.

Loren’s Catholic faith was the foundation of his life. He was a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus and a faithful member of St. Mary of Nazareth Catholic Church. He lived out his faith not only in worship but in action - in how he treated others, how he gave of himself, and how he led his family.

Loren and Rosie found great joy in gardening together, spending hours nurturing their gardens which in turn nurtured their relationship. They made a beautiful life filled with family road trips, simple traditions, and cheering on their beloved Iowa State Cyclones - especially during football season. Watching games together, often with the kids and grandkids, brought him such joy. He was never happier than when he was surrounded by family, telling stories, sharing meals, and watching his grandchildren and great grandchildren grow.

Loren had a quiet strength, a kind heart, and a deep, abiding love for those around him. His presence was steady and strong - a calm in the storm and a source of wisdom, support, and humor. He will be missed beyond measure but remembered with love and gratitude by all who were blessed to know him.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 1, from 5:00- 7:00 p.m. (rosary at 4:30) at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway in West Des Moines. A funeral Mass will be on Wednesday, July 2, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary of Nazareth Catholic Church, 4600 Meredith Drive in Des Moines with a luncheon to follow in the parish hall. Loren will be laid to rest at Elm Grove Cemetery, 1101 S Ave E, Washington, Iowa 52353 following the luncheon.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Hospice Wesley Life, St Mary of Nazareth Catholic Church, or to the Alzheimer’s Association in Loren’s honor.

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