James Russell Wagner

James Russell Wagner, 72, of Idaho Falls, passed away March 22, 2026, at his home. He was under the care of Symbii Home Health and Hospice and his loving family.

James was born August 17, 1953, in Saltville, Virginia, to Joe Thomas Wagner and Thelma Moore Wagner. He spent his childhood in Virgina, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Arizona, and Nevada. He attended John F. Miller Elementary, K.O. Knudson Junior High, and Valley High School in Las Vegas, Nevada.

On January 17, 1976, he married Marwayne Kaye Ridderbusch in Las Vegas, Nevada. On December 29, 1983, James and Marwayne were sealed for time and all eternity in the Jordan River Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He resided in Las Vegas, Nevada, for 40 years while he worked as a Teamster Truck Driver. In November 2015, he moved to Idaho Falls, Idaho, with Marwayne to enjoy their remaining years fishing and exploring the rivers and lakes in the Gem State.

He was an active and involved member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He enjoyed temple worship, fishing, airplanes, traveling, ATV riding, and boating.

James is survived by his wife, Marwayne Kaye Wagner of Idaho Falls, ID; son, Matthew James (Ana) Wagner of Clemmons, NC; son, David Russell Wagner of Plattsburgh, NY; daughter, Theresa Suzanne (Brian Holm) Gabignaud of Pocatello, ID; son, Zachary Elias (Callie) Wagner of Idaho Falls, ID; son, Randy Marshall (Dasha) Wagner of Pine Valley, CA; son, Steven Edward (Rachael) Wagner of Idaho Falls, ID; brother, Charles (K’Lynne) Wagner of Idaho Falls, ID; and 18 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Thelma Wagner.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the Sutter Ward, 1925 East 49th South, Idaho Falls, Idaho. A viewing for family and friends will be held on from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to services at the church. Burial will be in the Ammon Cemetery.