Robert & Aletta Wagner & Dorrene (Wagner) Roberts

Robert Larry Wagner, 83, his wife, Aletta Mae (Arp) Wagner, 79, and their daughter Dorrene Lynn (Wagner) Roberts, 52, passed away on October 1, 2024, in Adrian, MI.

Born on December 9, 1940, Robert was known for his serious demeanor, responsible nature, and passion which he balanced with a penchant for corny jokes. Robert graduated from Tama High School before attending Iowa State University. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy, bringing dedication and discipline to his service, which he carried into his subsequent career. As an electrical engineer, Robert made significant contributions to several companies including Lennox, Rockwell International, Addison Products, and finally Tecumseh Products, where he retired. His hobbies included solving Sudoku puzzles and attending sporting events of his children and later his grandchildren, cheering them on with enthusiasm and pride. A staunch Republican, Robert was deeply engaged in political discussions. He will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his career, and his interests, leaving a lasting impact on those who knew him.

Born on March 7, 1945, Aletta's life was marked by deep compassion and sensitivity. She was a graduate of Tama High School, where she began to cultivate her lifelong interests in crafting and baking, passions that brought joy to family and friends over the years. Her hands were rarely still as she crocheted, cross-stitched, and created intricate diamond dot pictures. Aletta also found great pleasure in baking for family events and attending sporting events of her children and later her grandchildren. Professionally, Aletta dedicated years of service as a Loan Officer, where she was known for her caring nature and dedication to helping others achieve their dreams of homeownership. Aletta's life was a testament to the power of nurturing and love, leaving a legacy of warmth and kindness that will be cherished by all who knew her.

Born on October 2, 1971, Dorrene brought joy and laughter to those around her with her caring nature and wicked sense of humor. Dorrene graduated from Onsted High School and later earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Management from Bellevue University in Omaha, Nebraska. Her professional life was marked by a dedication to service, initially through her military career in the Air Force. Dorrene met her beloved husband, Steve, during her service. She was stationed in Germany, Nebraska, and deployed to the Middle East as a weather specialist during Desert Storm. Following her military service, Dorrene continued to impact lives through her civilian career including real estate and property management. While apartment manager at Adrian Village, Dorrene was honored by the state's Veteran Services Division for her commitment to hiring military veterans. Dorrene's artistic flair shone through her hobbies. She loved creating stained glass pieces and upcycling antique furniture. Her compassion extended to animals, particularly in rescuing and adopting Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso puppies. Dorrene will be remembered for her ability to foster relationships and create lasting memories, a testament to her caring personality.

Robert and Aletta are survived by their daughter, Sherri (Wagner) Jett; son, Mark Wagner; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren as well as many family members in Iowa and Virginia including Aletta’s siblings Raynard Arp (Iowa), Larry Arp (Virginia), Arlene (Arp) Horstmann (Iowa), and Dean Arp (Iowa).

Dorrene leaves behind her husband, Steve Roberts; stepson, Jonathon Roberts; sister, Sherri (Wagner) Jett; brother, Mark Wagner; and one grandchild as well as many extended family members in Oklahoma, Iowa, Virginia, and Minnesota.

Donations in their honor may be made to Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Charitable Services Trust (help.dav.org) or Stop Soldier Suicide (stopsoldiersuicide.org). The Anderson-Marry Funeral Home in Adrian is assisting the Wagner and Roberts families.

A family-led celebration of life is scheduled for October 26, 2024, from 12:30 P.M. until 4:00 P.M. at the Reinig/ Toledo Civic Center located at 1007 S. Prospect Drive Toledo, Iowa 52342. Military honors will be held at 12:30 followed by fellowship and food.