Rudolph Wagner

Rudolph Daniel Wagner, 99, of Bellaire, formerly of Dowagiac, Mi, passed away on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. He was born on May 23, 1926, in Detroit, Mi, the son of Rudolph and Bertha (Miller) Wagner.

Rudolph graduated from St. Stephanus Lutheran High School in Detroit and enlisted in the United States Navy at 17 years old. He was enrolled at Tufts University to become a physician for the Navy, but Rudy felt compelled to serve in the South Pacific during World War II. After a year in college, he transferred to serve as a sonar man on a destroyer, the U.S.S. Young in the South Pacific. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned home to Detroit where he began a career with the Detroit Fire Department, eventually working his way up to the rank of Captain, often serving as Chief. At his time of death, he was the oldest living retired Detroit fireman. He retired to Dowagiac after 31 years with the department and spent the last four years of life with his daughter, Carol, in Bellaire.

His wife, Fanny, was the love of his life and they enjoyed 73 wonderful years together. In his free time, Rudolph could often be found fishing. He particularly enjoyed ice fishing in the winter. He played Gin Rummy, Cribbage, and Pinochle with friends and family. He did daily crossword puzzles in ink. He lived to cheer on the Detroit Lions, Tigers, and the Michigan Wolverines. He liked to play the harmonica as well. He will be sorely missed by his family.

Rudolph is survived by his three daughters, Carol McLeod of Bellaire, MI, Sandy (Craig) Robb of Cornelia, GA, and Kit (Guy) Meaders of Hartwell, GA; four grandchildren, Kevin McLeod, Ryan McLeod, Christopher (Savannah) Meaders, and Caroline (Scott) Hall; and a great-grandson, Wiley Meaders.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Fanny Wagner; his parents, Rudolph and Bertha Wagner; his brothers, Russell and Walter (Pearl) Wagner; and his sister, Lillian (Roy) Myers.

Rudolph's family has chosen to celebrate his life privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Detroit Fireman's fund or the Salvation Army.

Arrangements are in the care of the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.  Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com