James Wagner

James A. Wagner of Ashland, Nebraska passed away December 30, 2025 in Omaha, Nebraska at the age of 84 years. He was born September 7, 1941 in Altoona, Pennsylvania.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Alfred Wagner and Natalie Blumer; step-father Willis Blumer; and brothers Ronnie Wagner, Al "Dutch" Wagner, and Earl Wagner.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Gail Wagner; children Kimberly (Bill) Wilch, Donna Marie Wagner, and Jeff (Kim) Wagner; 6 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; brother Randy Blumer; and nieces, nephews, and other family.

A veteran of the United States Army, Jim served in Germany from 1964 to 1966. During his time completing maneuvers in the Black Forest, he earned a letter of commendation for his outstanding attitude and devotion to duty. This commendation specifically noted his willingness to work extra hours, highlighting the same drive and dedication that Jim carried with him throughout his entire life. In 2023, Jim was deeply honored to experience the "trip of a lifetime," on the High Plains Honor Flight to Washington, D.C.,

Jim spent his life building-not just structures, but opportunities. His entrepreneurial heart led him from business ownership in Iowa to the creation of Wagner Drywall and, ultimately, Platte Valley Construction. For nearly two decades, he focused his talents on new home construction and remodeling. Perhaps his most visionary project came in 1993, when he turned a humble pasture into Country Drive Driving Range, proving that with hard work and a clear dream, anything could be cultivated from the ground up. Country Drive Driving Range evolved into a golf course to be named Country Drive which was owned and operated until 2019.

Jim was deeply rooted in his community and believed in the value of showing up for his neighbors. A dedicated volunteer for the Ashland Saddle Club and a lifetime member of the VFW, he spent many years manning the grill at the legendary steak feeds. One of his greatest joys was participating in local parades alongside Hull and Smith, where he delighted crowds by performing intricate serpentines with his mules-a testament to his patience, skill, and vibrant spirit

Above all his professional achievements, Jim's greatest treasures were the people he loved. He shared a life of deep devotion with his wife of 61 years Gail, and together they embraced many great memories including occasional trips on the open road, cherishing their traveling adventures with their daughter Donna.. Jim's heart was full of pride for his son, Jeff, and he found immense joy in being a grandfather to Riley (Anthony), Dylan (Livia), and Tyler (Amber) and a great-grandfather to Kolbie and Hutton. He looked forward with great anticipation to the arrival of a new great-grandbaby this coming March-a baby boy who will proudly carry on the Wagner name and Jim's enduring legacy of strength and vision.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to High Plains Honor Flight