Stephen “Steve” Joe Wagher, 77 of Abingdon, passed away at 12:54 p.m. Wednesday, June 22, 2022 at OSF St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg.
He was born December 6, 1944 at Galesburg Cottage Hospital, the son of Irvin and Lillian (Badgett) Wagher. He married Kathleen Kilpatrick on July 29, 1973 at the Abingdon Christian Church by Rev. Donald Hogan.
Steve is survived by his wife of almost 49 years, Kathy; two sons, Nathan Wagher of Quincy and Ivan (Katie) Wagher of Abingdon; two granddaughters, Brooklynn and Macie Wagher; one brother, Dick Wagher of Galesburg; and one sister-in-law, Vickie Nelson of Peoria; and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister
Steve grew up in Galesburg and graduated from Galesburg High School. He served in the US Navy for four years during the Vietnam War. He later graduated from Barber College in the Quad Cities and operated a barber shop in Galesburg and Fairview. He lived in Abingdon most of his life. He also worked as an inspector at the former Outboard Marine Corporation in Galesburg and then worked as a security guard for area factories. He enjoyed antique collecting, playing pool and mostly, spoiling his granddaughters.
Cremation will be accorded. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Abingdon Chapel is assisting the family with his arrangements.
