Michael Edward Wagner – November 7, 2021

   Michael Edward Wagner, 61, of Colorado Springs died Sunday, November 7 in Aurora, Colorado due to covid and pneumonia.

   Michael was born June 16, 1960 in Anchorage, Alaska to Charles and Marie (Carrier) Wagner and spent most of his life in Colorado Springs. He attended the Rocky Mountain Rehabilitation Center and Laradon Hall in Denver and then began his work career at the Pioneer Workshop in Colorado Springs. This was followed by many working years at McDonalds, Bennigan’s and Taco Bell. After retirement, Michael kept busy with his friends in the Community Intersections day program.

   Michael was an enthusiastic participant in Special Olympics; he medaled in many sports but most enjoyed swimming, bowling, and skiing. In 1977 he was chosen to participate in the first International Winter Games and in 1990 he was named Special Olympian of the year and entered the Colorado Special Olympics Hall of Fame. When not busy being an athlete himself, Michael loved rooting for the Broncos, Rockies, Avalanche, and the Arkansas Razorbacks.

   Michael also enjoyed his friendships at Divine Redeemer parish and the Faith, Family and Friends Faith and Light community. He was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus. No one who met Michael could forget his joyful smile and ever-ready hugs; he was ready to make everyone his friend.

   Michael was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Denise Wagner. He is survived by his brothers David (Terry) of Rotonda West, Florida, and Robert (Patricia) of Rogers, Arkansas  and his sisters Susan (Alan) Mickelson of Kirbyville, Texas and Karen Wagner of Colorado Springs, as well as nephews, a niece, a grandnephew and many cousins.

   A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 16 at Divine Redeemer Catholic Church, 927 North Logan Avenue.

   In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to Colorado Special Olympics, 12450 E. Arapahoe Rd., Suite C, Centennial, CO 80112.