Rose Marie Wagner

Rose Marie Wagner, age 93, passed away in her Gig Harbor home on August 25, 2024. She was a Croatian fisherman’s daughter, born to Anté and Olga (Bobic) Burin in San Pedro, California on June 25, 1931. She married her high school sweetheart, Dr. William M. Wagner, DDS in 1951, and moved to Lakewood, WA shortly thereafter. The Wagner family grew to include six children and in 1965 they established residence in one of the original Lake Steilacoom homes.

Rose Marie was a dedicated wife and mother who supported her considerable family in all the many outdoor activities that Washington had to offer: lake swimming, water and snow skiing, fishing, collecting shellfish, camping, game hunting and hiking. She made the kitchen a central focus and passion where she perfected and instilled in her family the art and love of cooking. She was also an avid gardener with a prodigious green thumb and could make anything grow atypically bigger and better. She also greatly enjoyed exploring for and collecting antique furniture and decor.

Rose Marie’s down-to-earth, gentle disposition ensured she was loved by the many who knew her. Neighbors and friends across generations enjoyed visiting the Wagner’s beautiful and eclectic home, where the side door was always open to those who chose to drop by; and drop by they did in numbers that ultimately defined the Wagner household as alive with the spirit of fellowship and love. Visitors were regularly invited to join in a meal at the long kitchen table.

Throughout her life, Rose Marie appreciated the beauty of the natural world and the love of her family. The love of her life, Bill, predeceased her by 13 years. She is survived by her children, Steve (Lila), Janice (Scott), Jim (Vicki), John (Panna), Dave and Norman, her sister Dolores Solaro, eight grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Rest in Peace, Rose Marie.

A private memorial will be held on September 14 in Gig Harbor.