Leo V. Wagner, Jr., age 89, of Elko, Minnesota, passed away on September 4, 2026, at Abbott Northwestern Hospital. He lived a full and hardworking life rooted in service, craftsmanship, faith and, above all, his love for family and friends.
Leo was born October 21, 1936, in New Prague, to Leo Sr. and Helen (Ceplecha) Wagner. From an early age, Leo learned that hard work came first, followed by fun. He worked on the family farm while attending school, building the work ethic that would stay with him throughout his life.
In 1954, Leo graduated from New Prague High School and enlisted in the United States Army. He proudly served his country during the Korean Conflict. After returning home, Leo attended a dance at the New Prague Park Ballroom where he found his dancing partner for life. On June 27, 1964, Leo married Patricia Mach. Together, they built a life that would span 62 years. They made their home in Elko, where they raised their two children, Lori and Jarrod.
Leo devoted his career to carpentry, and farming with his son, two things that suited him well. He took pride in working with his hands, solving problems and doing things the right way. Leo built more than houses and worked the land. He built a family, friendships and a life filled with memories. He loved playing cards, dancing and being with the people he loved.
He had a way of bringing laughter into a room and making even the simplest gathering something worth remembering.
Leo is survived by his wife, Patty Wagner; his son, Jarrod Wagner; his daughter, Lori (Lloyd) Schoenbauer; and his granddaughters, Krystal and Ashley Schoenbauer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Leo J. Wagner, Sr. and other friends and relatives.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the St. Nicholas Church in New Market, Minnesota. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery, with a luncheon afterward in the church hall.