Joseph L. Wagner, age 81, of Kiel, died Thursday morning, May 17, 2012 at Willowdale Nursing & Rehab Center, New Holstein where he resided the past 2 weeks. He was born September 20, 1930 in St. Joe, son of the late Albert & Dorothy (Stephanie) Wagner. He attended New Holstein schools. Joe was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army serving with the 5th Armored Division in the Korean War. On September 5, 1953 he married Dolores Burmahln at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, New Holstein. Dolores preceded him in death on March 16, 1990. Joe worked as a mechanic for 30 years, first with the Hingiss Dealership in New Holstein and later with Vogel Chevrolet, Kiel. He also farmed for 40 years in the town of Schleswig. He was a member of SS Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Kiel where he was also a member of the Knights of Columbus. He also was a member of the Kiel VFW Post #6707. Joe enjoyed spending time fishing and hunting. Survivors include two sons: John (Donna Bronski) Wagner, Scottsdale, AZ, Scott (Tammy) Wagner, Kiel, one granddaughter, Haley, daughter-in-law, Debbie Wagner, Berlin and special friend of 8 years, Carol Gierke and her family. He is further survived by his brother, Donald (Katie) Wagner, New Holstein, sister, Mary (Clarence) Biese, Chilton, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his son, Charles Wagner, infant grandson, Matthew, two brothers; Sylvester Wagner, Francis (Aggie) Wagner and one sister , Miranda (Jerome) Leitner. The funeral Mass for Joe will be celebrated at 6:00 pm, Monday, May 21, 2012 at SS Peter & Paul Catholic Church, 413 Fremont St., Kiel with Rev. Loren Nys S.D.S. officiating. Burial will take place in the parish cemetery. Family & friends may call at the church on Monday from 3:00 pm until 5:45 pm when brief family rites will be held. Kiel VFW Post #6707 will conduct military services following the Mass. Joe's family would like to extend their thanks to the staff at both Willowdale Nursing & Rehab Center and Calumet County Hospice for the wonderful care he received.