Robert “Bob” Owen Wagner, Sr. 76, of St.Clairsville, Ohio died Tuesday December 20, 2011 at Wheeling Hospital. He was born August 15, 1935 at Evansville, IN a son of the late Blount Rafford Wagner and Dorothy Osborn Wagner.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 2 brothers Ira Blount Wagner and Richard Frank Wagner.
After studying at Purdue University, Bob enjoyed a long and prestigious career in the zoo business. He began his career as a zoo keeper at Mesker Park Zoo in Evansville, IN. in 1955, later becoming Head Keeper and then Assistant Director. Bob then became the Director at Washington Park Zoo in Michigan City, IN. and the Director at Jackson Zoological Park in Jackson, MS.
In 1975, Bob was chosen as Executive Director of the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums. He remained in this position until 1992 when he became the Chief Administrative Officer, a position he held until his retirement in 1996. One of the many highlights of Bob’s career came in 1994 when he was honored with the R. Marlin Perkins Award for Professional Excellence.
Bob is survived by his wife of 57 years Marilyn Clark Wagner; a son Robert O. Wagner, Jr. and his wife Cherie of Centreville, VA; 2 daughters Lori Wagner Jackson of St.Clairsville, OH. and Marilyn C. “Marty” Wagner of Suwanee, Ga.; 4 grandchildren Megan Wagner, Todd Jackson, Scott Jackson and Cody Jackson; 1 sister Norma Ruth Wagner Clark of St. Petersburg, FL.
There will be no visitation, services at the convience of the family. Beck-Altmeyer Funeral Home & Crematory St.Clairsville is in charge of arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Robert O. Wagner Scholarship Fund % Association of Zoos and Aquariums 8403 Colesville Road Suite 710 Silver Spring, MD 20910-3314
Online condolences may be offered at altmeyer.com
Bob was always happy to help and support so many of us in the zoo profession. His memory will live on in the students at the AZA schools in Wheeling.
Like so many others in our profession, Bob had a tremendous impact on my career. I am deeply grateful for the privilege of having known him. From all of the staff at the Chattanooga Zoo, please accept our sympathy and prayers.
My thoughts are with you, Marilyn, and the entire Wagner family as you deal with the loss of this great man. Bob was a mentor to me as a young professional in the AAZPA, and he was always supportive and encouraging. His leadership raised the zoo & aquarium profession to new levels, and his legacy of progress will be remembered.
Our thoughts are with you in this time of sorrow.