Joseph Wagner

To view the live stream of Joe's Rosary & Funeral Mass please go to the photos and video link above, and scroll down till you see the watch webcast link.

https://youtu.be/-AazKAi_3SU

Funeral Mass for Joseph Wagner, 87, of Dickinson, will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, August 4, 2020 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Dickinson, with Fr. William Ruelle Celebrating. Rosary will take place at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, August 4, 2020 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Dickinson. Visitation will take place from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday, August 3, 2020 at Stevenson Funeral Home, Dickinson. Burial will follow at North Dakota Veterans Cemetery at 3:00 pm CST in Mandan, ND.

Joseph passed away on Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at St. Benedict’s Health Center in Dickinson, ND.

Joseph John Wagner, known all his life as Joe, was born October 14th 1932 in Strasburg, ND to John and Katherine (Dietz) Wagner.

As a young man Joe grew up in Strasburg, ND working in the family business, Wagner Grocery. In 1952 he enlisted with the US Navy and was trained as a weatherman. After his 4 years in the Navy he returned to Strasburg and joined the family meat market with his parents and brother. In 1965 he purchased a store in Dickinson, ND which became known as Joe’s Fairway Foods on West Villard. Joe’s Fairway was a prominent business for many years with loyal customers and employees and a perfect place for young college students to work.

After several successful years in the grocery business he sold the store and went on to other ventures; Real Estate, apartment rentals and small investments. Over the years he proved himself to be an exceptional entrepreneur and was always remembered as being honest and trustworthy as a landlord, friend and business partner.

Joe was a strong believer in giving back to his church and his community. Throughout his life journey he often gave assistance to families, friends and others in need. He was a gracious supporter of education, in particular, Dickinson State University, Mary College and Dickinson Catholic Schools.

Joe loved to garden. He was always excited when his “special” onions sets would arrive, which he would share with a few select fellow gardeners. He enjoyed sports, especially the Twins and Vikings, but his passion was bowling. He was a member of several bowling leagues and has at least one 300 game to his credit. He traveled often to state and national tournaments, including Las Vegas, his favorite.

After years of bachelorhood, and very set in his ways, he finally met a woman who could handle his German stubbornness. Joe and Genevieve were married on December 28, 1979. Gen loved to bowl too, a big bonus, and she introduced him to Bingo, which became a great past time for them over the years. During their 24 years of marriage they enjoyed travel and family. Joe inherited Genevieve’s family of 3 adult children, whom he loved and cherished, in addition to grandchildren, which brought yet another new loving adventure for him.

Joe created many lasting relationships throughout his life and was a mentor to many. He always appreciated the kindness and care he received from the staff at Benedict Court and St. Benedict Health Center. Joe was grateful for his Christian faith, for the opportunities that God gave him, for the family that raised him, and for those who surrounded him.

Joe is survived by his sister, Lydia Roth, Strasburg; Niece Patricia (Brad) Pender, Dickinson; nephews, Rev. Gary Ternes, Bloomington, MN and Timothy Ternes, St. Cloud, MN; step-daughters, Sandy (Tom) Nelson, Dickinson and Bobbi (Duane) Maus, Golva; step-son Jeff Ley, Rapid City SD.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Genevieve; sisters, Marge Ternes and Florence Huber; and brother, Albert.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.stevensonfuneralhome.com.
Stevenson Funeral Home & Crematory, Dickinson