James Albert Wagner

Jim Wagner, beloved husband, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin and friend, passed away Sunday November 20, 2022 at his home in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Jim was born to Oscar and Sophie Wagner on February 13, 1943 in Huntingburg Indiana. He grew up in De Ridder, Louisiana along with his sisters and a large extended family. After serving in the United States Navy Jim made his home in southern New Mexico. He worked as a cowboy on a large ranch near the San Andres mountains. During this time he met Barbara who became his wife of 53 years. Jim graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering Technology from New Mexico State University and worked as a surveyor and later as an engineer for the Bureau of Land Management. Jim enjoyed and was very accomplished in photography and woodworking. He was a Boy Scout leader and was a life member of the Breakfast Optimist Club serving with distinction in various local and district leadership roles. Jim and Barbara enjoyed camping, and had wonderful times travelling from Alaska to Louisiana in their motor home. Jim took care of Barbara during the time she suffered with declining health. No one could have loved or cared for her better. Jim is survived by his siblings Patricia Dean of Las Cruces, Margie and Richard Reese of Leesville, Louisiana, Cissy and Dennis Moses of De Ridder, Louisiana, Joe Giovanni of Arkansas, Sue Bornholdt of Leesville, Louisiana and their families. He is also survived by his sister and brother-in-law Patty and Ed Hughs of Las Cruces and their family. Jim was deeply loved by all his family and he had a special place in his heart for three generations of nieces and nephews who loved their "Uncle Jimmy". Jim was preceded in death by Barbara and his mother and father. A memorial service honoring Jim's life will be held at 10:00 AM, Thursday, December 8, 2022 at Grace Covenant Church, 3111 N. Main. Internment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held Wednesday, December 7, 2022 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Getz Funeral Home. The family wishes to thank Jim's wonderful friends and neighbors who were faithfully there for him, especially during his last years.