David Edwin Wagner, "The Big Man"

David Edwin Wagner “The Big Man”

David Edwin Wagner, affectionately known as “The Big Man,” passed away peacefully on September 8, 2026, at the age of 75.

Born on December 3, 1950, in Oxford, Ohio, David was raised in Akron, Ohio, and spent his entire life in the community he called home. Akron was not simply where he lived, it was where he built his life, friendships, music, and memories.

David was the beloved husband of the late Natalie C. Wagner (Kibble), whom he married on May 12, 1973. Natalie preceded him in death in 2023. Together, they built a family and shared more than 50 years of life and memories.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Evelyn and David Wagner; his brother, Donald; his son-in-law, Scott; and his grandson, Ellis.

David is survived by his children, Daniel (Bridgette) Wagner and Jennifer (Nick) Hatzopoulos; and “Papa” to his grandchildren: Kameron, Keiyon, Kyilon, Kalier, Khaleb, Jayla, Taryn, Mia, Lila, Keegan, Joshua & Kaiden.

As well as his sisters Chris (Tom) Baugh and Cathy Campion. And Uncle Dave to many nieces & nephews.

David worked for more than 30 years for Midland Commerce Group, a title insurance company. Throughout his long career, he also continued to pursue the passions that made him uniquely himself.

David was quiet, calm, and deeply caring. He loved politics and music. Music was always a central part of his life. He played in the high school marching band and college. He continued performing in rhythm & blues & rock groups, including The Rumble, The Business, and The Wanda Hunt Band, throughout his adulthood in the Akron area. His primary instrument was the saxophone. Music remained a meaningful part of his life for many years.

David was artistic, whimsical, intelligent, and endlessly curious: from completing the daily crossword puzzle in the Beacon, photography, avid reader, to macrame’ to teaching himself how to juggle. He always found another creative outlet to explore.

He had a particular love for collecting pipes, hats, pocket knives, Zippos, handkerchiefs, and all kinds of interesting trinkets. His collections, hobbies, music, and quirky talents reflected the person he was—someone who noticed the unusual, appreciated the interesting, and never stopped being curious about the world around him.

To those who knew and loved him, David was much more than the things he accomplished or collected. He was a gentle, thoughtful, and one-of-a-kind person whose quiet presence, creativity, and individuality left a lasting impression.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, fellow musicians, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

His memory will live on in the music he played, the things he taught himself, the stories his family will continue to tell, and the many little pieces of life that made David uniquely David. May his memory be Eternal.

A service honoring David’s life will be 2:00 PM, Monday September 14 at Billow Funeral Home, 85 North Miller Road, Akron, Ohio 44333, with Kevin O’Brien officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home one hour prior to the service beginning at 1:00 PM.

(Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)