Mark E. Wagner

Mark E. Wagner, 58, of Springfield, passed away on Thursday, August 4, 2022, while taking one last bicycle ride at Washington Park in Springfield. He was doing his favorite thing in his favorite place.

Mark was born October 22, 1963, in Peoria, the son of Dale Edward and Mary Ann (Braun) Wagner.

He attended St. Patrick Grade School in Washington, IL and graduated from Washington Community High School in 1982. Mark proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1982 to 1985. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Environmental Health from Illinois State University. Mark worked for the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency for 27 years and had retired at the end of 2021. He held many titles at IEPA over the years, but was especially proud of being an Environmental Protection Specialist for the Bureau of Land. Mark was a member of Springfield Bike Club and the proud leader of The Morons. He was a former volunteer at the APL and was known as “The Dog Whisperer” by his family. Mark enjoyed playing pickleball and had a passion for riding bikes. He literally rode his bike until the day he died. Bike riding and his service in the military instilled in him a love for traveling which he enjoyed for many years. Mark was a proud father and an even a prouder grandfather. He will be deeply missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Mark is survived by his daughter, Rachel (Lucas) Morrison of New Berlin; grandchildren, Charlie and Benjamin Morrison; siblings, Eric Wagner of Pekin, IL, Robert (Johanna) Wagner of Peoria, Kelly (Glen) Atkins of Mackinaw, IL, and Tony (Shelly) Wagner of Virden; Rachel’s mother, Dee Dee Wagner of Springfield; niece, Jay Wagner; and several other nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

The family will host a Celebration of Mark’s Life beginning at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 14, 2022, at the Main Building of the Sangamon County Fairgrounds in New Berlin.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Rd., Springfield, IL 62702.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-New Berlin, 714 East Gibson St., New Berlin, IL.