WAGNER

MATTHEW RAY

Matthew Ray Wagner, 42, passed away on August 9, 2025; son of Ronald and Susan Wagner; grandson to the late Richard F. Wagner and Barbara H. Wagner, and Mark J. Pyles and the late Barbara A. Pyles; father to Alexander, Grace, and McKenzie; brother to Rebecca "Becky" Wagner; uncle to Colton and Chloe. Matt will also be missed by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and especially his dog, Duke.

Matt served as a volunteer firefighter at Highland Volunteer Fire Department for 25 years, showing courage and commitment to helping others. He had a lifelong love for trucks, trains, and antique cars, which included working alongside his father, mother, and son at the family business, Import Motorcar Service. There was no task Matt couldn't tackle; he could fix just about anything and was willing to help others anytime, day or night.

Matt cherished his family and friends and loved nothing more than spending time with them, no matter the place, including the family farm. He was a kind old soul who valued friendships and built strong bonds with those around him. Matt was a true individual who didn't conform to others' views. As a teen, he rocked a cowboy hat while driving a camouflage painted Volvo blasting metal rap with an oversized vintage beacon bubble gum light mounted to the roof. As years progressed into adulthood, Matt's style transformed while staying true to himself, sporting a handlebar mustache, cowboy boots, and retro bowling shirts like no one else could. One thing that never wavered was his love for Pepsi.

The embodiment of Matt truly showed during his heroic battle with complications from pancreatitis. In his final weeks and days, he was more concerned about others than he was himself. Of all things that defined Matt, becoming a father was his greatest accomplishment. Although he is gone, his love for them will carry on.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Highland Volunteer Fire Department in McCandless.

Friends will be received Thursday, August 14, 202,5 from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM, and again on Friday from 3 until time of service at 7 PM at DEVLIN FUNERAL HOME, 806 Perry Hwy.