IN MEMORIAM: Norma Wagner, 89;

Retired To Cooperstown With Husband

COOPERSTOWN – Norma Wallerius Wagner, 89, who in retirement moved to Cooperstown in 2004 with her husband, Bill, died peacefully in the company of her family on March 20, 2016, in Cooperstown.

Born at home in Paterson, N.J., on Labor Day, Sept. 6, 1926, she was the daughter of Otto and Lina Luebbe Wallerius, youngest sister of Lya and Otty, and one of 35 first cousins, spread out all over the world.

She had a coterie of eight high school friends who kept lifelong contact, and as an adult continued to make wonderful long-lasting friendships.

Norma met Dick Wagner when they were camp counselors, and wed in 1946 after his return from World War II service in the Navy. Their strong and loving partnership lasted 65 years until Dick’s death in 2011.

The Wagners and their three children settled in Cranford, N.J., where Dick was a school principal and Norma, who attended Drew University, worked for ARC in guidance and counseling.

Norma was an active member of the League of Women Voters, and she and Dick were devoted members of the Unitarian Church in Summit, N.J.

Moving to Cooperstown in 2004, Norma lived near her daughter Betsy and her husband Bill Hayes.

Predeceased by her parents, husband, sisters and most cousins, Norma is survived by M.E. (Betsy) and Bill, by her son Rick and his wife Muff of Atlanta, Ga., and Isle of Palms, S.C. and her daughter Ginny, also of Isle of Palms.

In addition, she leaves grandchildren John (Amanda) Wagner and children Alyssa and Evan; Ben (Emily) Hayes and children Wyatt, Skyler and Elliott; Tim (Lindsay) Hayes and children Madison and Lucy; Peter Wagner and his fiance Marilee; David (Eva) Wagner and daughter Phoebe; and, Elisabeth “EB” and Will McCarter. She will be missed as well by niece, Ly (Rob) Scoskie and nephews, Skip and Toby (Vicki) Barton and their families.

Known for her devotion to family and for her inquisitive spirit, she will be sorely missed by all. Schlaf gut, Norma.