John ‘Jack’ Wagner

John ‘Jack’ Wagner

John “Jack” Wagner, 90, of Benson, Minnesota, died Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at Bethesda Grand in Willmar, Minnesota. Visitation will be held Wednesday, September 9, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30. Burial will be in the St Francis Catholic Church Cemetery in Benson. 

John “Jack” William Wagner, 90, was born March 9, 1936, in Manning, Iowa, the son of Matthew Nichols and Catherine E Dahloff Wagner. He was baptized and confirmed in the Catholic Faith. He grew up in Manning, Iowa and graduated from Manning High School. Jack served his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corp in June of 1954 and was discharged in June 1957. He was stationed in Okinawa, Japan.

April 8, 1961, Jack was united in marriage to H. Darlene Onken in Benson Minnesota. This union was blessed with over 65 years together. They made their home in Benson. He worked at Darold’s Super Valu for over 50 years! Jack’s faith was an important part of his life, and he left his mark on St. Francis Catholic Church where he was active in RCIA and confirmation and served as a Eucharistic Minister.  Bowling, fishing, golf, and softball were among the things he enjoyed. Jack loved family and his happiest days were those that were shared with family. His smile lit up every room, and his steady, uplifting spirit made people feel welcomed, encouraged, and deeply cared for. He carried a kindness that stayed with you long after he walked away.

Wednesday afternoon, September 2, 2026, Jack was called from this life at Bethesda Grand in Willmar, MN. 

Jack is survived by his wife Darlene; his son Ron (Deborah) Wagner of Mankato; his grandchildren Josh (Jaclyn) Jaycox, Jess (Tom) Bye, and Kellie Wagner; and his great grandchildren, Emily Jaycox, Rory Jaycox, and Charles Bye; his siblings: Eugene “Bud” (Marj) Wagner of Carroll, Iowa, Vern (Judy) Wagner of Audubon, Iowa, Kathy Popp of Homosassa, Florida, and Donald (June) Wagner of Gonzalas, Louisiana; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Matthew and Catherine, his sisters, Delores Longenecker, and Alice Stangl; his brothers-in-law, Richard Longenecker, Donald Stangl, and Larry Popp, and a sister-in-law Diane Wagner.  

Blessed be his memory.

Zniewski Funeral Home of Benson is assisting the family with the arrangements.