Audrey Jean (Suehr) Wagner

Audrey Jean Wagner

(nee Suehr) Surrounded by family at home, Audrey Jeanne Wagner entered eternal life on November 1, 2020.  She was born on October 9, 1934 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to the late John and Mary (nee Golden) Suehr. 

Audrey was passionate about her family and faith. She was the loving wife of almost 55 years to James C. Wagner before he preceded her in death in October 2011.  Together, they devoted their lives to raising their seven children, as well as assisting in the care for many of their grandchildren.  As a gentle and affectionate mother, Audrey accentuated Catholic values and morals for her children.  She also enshrined an ethos of hard work and a respect for education.

Second only to her faith and family was her patriotic zeal.  From her time as a young “Goldwater Girl” to volunteering for the Republican party, she sought to preserve traditional family values in America. Above all, she was an ardent advocate for the unborn child. Throughout decades of political and cultural transition, she was steadfast in her beliefs and never shied away from sharing any of her strong convictions.

Audrey maintained an active social life.  She formed life-long friendships from high school through her last years.  She loved to play games—especially the card games bridge and Sheepshead—ballroom dance and attend musical plays.  Her home was always an open house where she loved to entertain family and friends.  Everyone knew they were welcome at Audrey’s house.

Audrey’s patience, love and nurturing led to a career in nursing.  She graduated from Marquette University in 1956 with a degree in nursing, and received her Masters in Nursing from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.  Over her 45 year career as a nurse and educator at Waukesha County Technical College, her care and guidance touched many professionally, as well as warmed members of her family during their times of need.  

Audrey’s maternal and warmhearted nature permeated through her relationships, politics, and career. She was sympathetic and tenacious. She was determined and thoughtful.  She was frugal and generous. Underneath a resolute demeanor was a compassionate character.  Her strength and perseverance were an example for all.

Proud and patient mother to Judy (Ken) Wall, James P. Wagner, Joan (Jeff) Grant, Michael (Mary) Wagner, Jean (Jeff) Nigel, Julie (Neil) Johnson and Jennifer (Timothy) Gallagher. Grandmother to Elizabeth (Neal) Edwards, Michael and Nicholas Wall; Kristina, Andrea, James Jr. Wagner, and Theresa (Mike) Schimmels; Stephanie (Tim) Kehoe, Lauren and JJ Grant; Patrick and Joseph (Jessica) Wagner; Sean, Alison and Matthew Nigel; Erik, Hailey, Steven and Emily Johnson; and Colin and Claire Gallagher. Great-Grandmother to Sam, Max, Henry and Jack Edwards; and Isabella Wagner. Also survived by her siblings Mary Schmitz; John (Bernice) Suehr; Tom (Roberta) Suehr; Marge (Ron) Sulewski; and Patty (Jim) Westphal; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held from 10am until the time of Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30am on Saturday, November 7, all at St. Charles Catholic Church, 313 Circle Dr., Hartland.  Interment following the Mass of Christian Burial at St. Charles Cemetery in Hartland.

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