Western Illinois University Athletics is saddened by the passing of Mike Wagner ’71, whose career and character made him one of the most respected student-athletes in program history.
Wagner was a native of Waukegan and earned his Bachelor of Arts in Accountancy from Western Illinois University in 1971. From 1967 to 1970, he helped lead the Leathernecks football program and was recognized as an NAIA All-American in 1969. His impact at Western was later honored with induction into the WIU Athletics Hall of Fame in 1976.
Following his collegiate career, Wagner was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 11th round of the 1971 NFL Draft. He went on to play 10 seasons in the NFL, serving as the Steelers’ starting safety during their championship run of the 1970s. Wagner was part of all four Super Bowl title teams and a key figure in the iconic “Steel Curtain” defense. He tied for the league lead with eight interceptions in 1973, earned Pro Bowl honors in 1975 and 1976, and completed his career with 36 interceptions and 12 fumble recoveries. He recorded interceptions in Super Bowl IX and Super Bowl X, ranks sixth on the Steelers’ all-time interceptions list, and was inducted into the Steelers Hall of Honor in 2020.
Wagner remained closely connected to Western Illinois University throughout his life and returned to campus in 2016 to serve as Homecoming Grand Marshal, a role that reflected the mutual pride between Wagner and his alma mater.
Former teammate and Leatherneck football co-captain Bob Nardelli, past CEO of Chrysler, The Home Depot, and General Electric, remembered Wagner fondly:
“I am deeply saddened at the loss of a dear friend, an amazing athlete, husband, father and grandfather. A true gentleman and dear friend. His legacy at Western will live on forever as his standout performance with the Pittsburgh Steelers and the infamous Iron Curtain team.
“Miike was one of the first NFL players that started a string who followed, putting the Leathernecks on the map.
“God bless my friend.”
Another teammate and former Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Relations at Western Illinois University, Larry Mortier, shared:
“Mike was not only a great player and great teammate, he was a great person.”
Mike Wagner will be remembered for more than his football accomplishments. His leadership, loyalty to Western Illinois University, and influence on future generations of Leathernecks leave a lasting legacy within WIU Athletics and beyond.
***Courtesy of Western Illinois University***
