Obituary of James Leo Wager

Wayland – James “Jim” Leo Wager, 76 years of age, passed away Monday afternoon at his home in Wayland.

Jim was born October 20, 1941 in Wayland the son of Leo and Velma (Miller) Wager.  He grew up in Wayland and has remained a life resident of the area.  Jim graduated from St. Joseph’s Catholic School and was a 1959 graduate of Wayland Central School. Jim served his country in the United States Army in the 2^nd Armored Division from June 11, 1962 to June 10, 1965 being honorably discharged with the rank of sergeant. Returning home, Jim started his 40 year career in the fuel oil industry in the same office until his retirement as Regional Manager in 2003.

Jim and Karen Didas were married June 21, 1969 at St. Joseph’s Church in Wayland.  Together they have celebrated over 49 years of marriage and raised three children, Brian, Barry and Mary Jo.  Jim loved to farm and continued raising beef cattle throughout his life while being employed full time with Griffith Oil Company.  He was a member of the Wayland American Legion, NYS Beef Producers Association, and served 8 years as a Wayland Town Councilman. He enjoyed playing cards and spending time with his grandkids.

Jim was pre-deceased by his parents Leo and Velma Wager.  He is survived by his wife, Karen Wager of Wayland; his children, Brian (Deborah) Wager of Wayland; Barry (Andrea) Wager of Lima and Mary Jo Wager of Lowell, NC; his grandchildren, Daniel, Kaitlyn, Colin, Amanda and Brendan; his brother, Lawrence “Butch” (Bonnie) Wager of Springwater, Leonard “Mopey” (Dorothy) Wager of Wayland and Thomas (Carolyn) Wager of Springwater; his sisters and brothers in-law; Barbara (William)Reigelsperger of Naples, Linda (Thomas) Erwin of Groveland, Thomas (Helen) Didas of Macedon, William (Marie) Didas of Endwell and Kathy (John) Hettrick of Avon; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Jim on Friday at 11am at St. Joseph’s Church.  Committal prayers, military honors and interment will take place immediately following at St. Joseph’s Cemetery.  Contributions in memory of Jim may be made to the Vincent House, 310 Second Ave., Wayland, NY 14572.