Paul J. Wagner

Paul Joseph Wagner, 86, died peacefully on September 24, 2026, following a short illness.

Paul was born in Buffalo, New York, where he spent most of his life. He also enjoyed 20 years in Boiling Spring Lakes, North Carolina, before returning to the Rochester area four years ago.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Sylvia Elene Wagner, with whom he shared a long life centered around family. He is survived by his three sons, Joseph (Katherine), David (Donna), and Eric (Monica); his grandchildren, Matthew, Daniel, Julianna, John, Charlie, Annie, and Adam; and his younger sisters, Faith and Priscilla. He was also predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Florence Wagner.

Paul was an intelligent, curious, and unmistakably individual person. He was far smarter than his formal education might have suggested and was rarely happier than when there was a problem to solve, something to repair, or a new device to figure out. He embraced digital technology with enthusiasm and took great pleasure in mastering whatever new gadget found its way into his hands.

He also had a distinctive sense of humor. Paul was funny, occasionally quirky, and a true aficionado of the non sequitur, with a talent for saying something completely unexpected at exactly the right—or wrong—moment. Those who knew him well will remember that humor, along with the unique way he looked at the world.

Paul enjoyed fishing, playing golf and target shooting at the gun range and valued the quiet satisfaction that came with both. Above all, he was a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and a constant presence in the lives of those closest to him.

His family will remember him for his curiosity, humor, independence, and his enduring instinct to understand how things worked and, whenever possible, make them work a little better.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Paul’s memory to the Wilmot Cancer Institute.