Johanna Rose (Hama) Wagner

Johanna R. Wagner, age 88, of Wilmington, DE was called home to the Lord on August 17th, 2023 surrounded by her family and loved ones. 

Johanna carried her faith and the love of her family throughout her journey in life, and was a devoted member of St. John the Beloved Parish for over 68 years. Johanna is survived by her husband of 68 years, Lewis B. Wagner; and sister, Loretta Zienkiewicz. She also leaves behind a legacy of four children, son, Robert Wagner (and his wife, Barbara), daughter, AnneMarie Boulden (and her husband, Charlie), son, Thomas Wagner (and his wife, Gail), and daughter, Kathleen Moore (and her husband, John); 12 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and goddaughter, Sheila O’Brien.

Our hearts are truly broken, yet we are comforted knowing Johanna will be reunited with her mother, Helen Hama (Sokol); father, Joseph Hama;  sister, Irene Barnhart; sister, Helen Klingerman; and brother, Joseph Hama Jr. 

During this difficult time, her family finds solace in fond memories of Johanna throughout the years. Johanna lived a full life, was a true matriarch dedicated to her family, and was fiercely independent; always proving she was determined and able to do things her way even when it did not seem likely or possible. 

Johanna overcame incredible odds many times throughout her life. She did not allow old age, health hurdles, broken bones, or negativity to sway her from living life, loving and supporting her family, and remaining devout and dedicated to her faith. She became engaged to her husband before the Korean War and put her faith in God that he would return him to her safe and sound. There are not many people who can say that in their 80’s they can break two femurs simultaneously and get back up and begin walking around again. These are only a few fond memories and examples that speak to her determination to do things her way, and not allow seemingly impossible obstacles to keep her from what she wanted from this life.

Johanna held various unique jobs in her youth such as a roller skating waitress at the Chuck Wagon that used to be located on Kirkwood Highway in Wilmington, DE. She also touched many lives as a bus driver for over 8 years, ensuring children’s safety and bringing smiles to their young faces every day. She showed her support and dedication to her family even within her career. She worked with her eldest daughter, AnneMarie at Zipco for many years, creating and distributing publications that reached many people, some of which her husband Lewis likely distributed as a mailman; this fond memory often brings a smile to her family's faces. She also worked with her youngest daughter, Kathleen at Delaware Registered Agents for many years giving support and keeping things organized; always pointing out when things changed or were out of place, this memory still makes her family laugh to this day.

Johanna selflessly continued to worry and care for others even in her last days. The mark she has left on this world through her dedication to her husband for over 73 years, through her children’s love and admiration, through her large and devoted extended family, and through her unwavering faith is remarkable and will never be forgotten.

Family and friends are invited to visit at the Doherty Funeral Home, Pike Creek on Thursday, August 24th, 2023 from 5:00-7:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00am on Friday, August 25thm 2023, at St. John the Beloved Church 907 Milltown Road, Wilmington, DE 19808. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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