James Van Wagner

James Arthur Van Wagner died after a short illness at his home in Thornton, CO on August 10, 2013. He was born February 3, 1942 in Waterbury, CT. His parents were Albert Edwin Van Wagner and Margaret (Libby) Van Wagner. Jim was the father of Whitney Van Wagner and grandfather of Savannah Dixon and Keaton Ladwig. He served in the U.S. Air Force as a Russian language specialist and photographer. Jim had an eclectic career in the restaurant and transportation industries. His first love though was the sea having lived on his sailboat for many years in Florida. Jim also loved music and was an accomplished guitarist. He moved to Colorado in later life to be close to his daughter and grandchildren, but always dreamed of returning to Florida to once again live on a boat. Jim’s parents and his sister, Alana Van Wagner, predeceased him. He is survived by his daughter and grandchildren, his brother Bert and his sister-in-law Tessie Van Wagner. A military service will be held at Fort Logan at 2:15 p.m. on August 23, 2013. A reception for family and friends will follow.