Dale Wayne Wagner

Dale Wayne Wagner, 91, of Battle Creek, Michigan died peacefully at Kairos Dwelling on Monday, June 23, 2025.

Dale was born December 21, 1933, in Battle Creek, the son of Paul and Irene (Kelley) Wagner. He grew up in Battle Creek and was a 1952 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School. Dale Wayne Wagner and Mary Ann Paulson were united in marriage on June 21, 1952.

Mary and Dale first met as casual friends at Southeastern Junior High. Life carried them in different directions after school, but fate brought them back together one evening at a dance. Dale was there with another date, and Mary happened to be with his brother. But when, Dale asked Mary to dance, something just clicked. So they moved across the dance floor. Dale turned to her and said, “Why don’t we get married?” Without missing a beat, Mary smiled and said “Okay.” The next day, Dale called her up and said, “I was serious.” And again, she simply smiled and said “Okay.” Four weeks later, they were married. Dale worked nights, and Mary worked days, so their first real date as a couple came on their honeymoon – a trip to the drive-in theater. It wasn’t traditional, but it was theirs – and it was the beginning of a life built on spontaneity, simplicity and love.

Dale and Mary purchased Ruggles Gift Shop from Ethel Ruggles in 1968. They co-owned and operated Ruggles Gift Shop for 30 years, prior to retiring. Ruggles was one of Battle Creek’s finest gift shops.

Surviving are his wife, Mary; two daughters, Cynthia “Cindi” Holmes and Christy Lamson both of Kalamazoo; five grandchildren, Douglas Holmes, Mary (Eric) Holmes- Sorter, Kristin (Kyle) Holmes-Kopy, Ben (Gina) Lamson; Elliott (Catlina) Lamson and ten great-grandchildren. Dale was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Pat Peck and a brother, Richard Wagner.

Dale was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. He was also a member of St. Vincent De Paul. At age 50, Dale started running and competed in 13 marathons. He qualified for the Boston Marathon and ran in two of them. Dale enjoyed oil painting and playing the piano. Dale will be remembered as outgoing, charming, and a friend to all he met.

A celebration of life service will be held at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Heartland Hospice or St. Joseph Catholic Church. Personal messages for Dale’s family may be shared at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.