Russell M. “Buddy” Wagner, age 82 of Hamburg, Indiana, passed away on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his Loving Family. Born June 17, 1942, in Batesville, Indiana, he is the son of Gilbert and Caroline (Nee: Keeley) Wagner. Russell married Kathleen “Katie” Tekulve on September 7, 1963, at St. Louis Catholic Church in Batesville, Indiana.
Russell was a hard worker all of his life. He was a factory worker for Hill-Rom, before retiring. He enjoyed gardening and had a passion for all of his beautiful flowers that he would plant. His passion for the outdoors allowed him to enjoy many hobbies, which included hunting, fishing, and mushroom hunting. He was a true fan of the Bengals and the Cincinnati Reds. He loved to bowl and play horseshoes, as he and his brother Johnny were the best at playing it and would win at every tournament. He also loved to go for rides with his wife and grandkids on his golf cart. His grandchildren and great grandchildren were his pride and joy. He had a very special place in his heart for each of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
He was a member of St. Louis Catholic Church in Batesville.
Russell is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Kathleen of Hamburg; son Daniel M. Wagner and daughter Sandra K. (Robert) Short, all of Batesville; sisters Carol A. (Steve) Stenger of Hamburg and Mary K. (Kevin) Graves of Madison, Indiana; grandchildren Robbie (Kathy) Short and Ashley (David) Pickett; great grandchildren Rylee, Harper, and Chase, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Russell was preceded in death by his sister Brenda S. (Howard) Wagner, brother John E. Wagner, and infant great grandson Ralphie Pickett.
Visitation is Friday, May 2nd, from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., at Holy Family Catholic Church in Oldenburg, Indiana. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12 p.m., with Fr. John Barker officiating. A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m., Tuesday, May 6th, at St. Louis Cemetery in Batesville. Memorial contributions may be made to the Margaret Mary Health Foundation Hospice or the Margaret Mary Health Cancer Center. For online condolences go to www.weigelfh.com.