Michael Thomas “Woody” Wagar Leaves Legacy of Service, Humor and Family

 Michael Thomas “Woody” Wagar, 64, of Akron, Ohio, died unexpectedly Saturday, September 19, 2026, leaving behind a family, former colleagues, friends, and a lifetime of stories shaped by humor, service, and an unmistakable personality. Born in Toledo on March 30, 1962, to the late Thomas and Norma Wagar, Michael built a life that brought together a long career in emergency medical service, close family relationships, practical interests, and the kind of outgoing spirit people remembered long after meeting him.

Much of Michael’s professional life was spent as a paramedic with City of Cleveland EMS, a career he continued until retiring in 2022. His work placed him in situations where patients and colleagues depended on his presence, and his family remembered the pride he took in that service. The years he spent with Cleveland EMS became an important part of the life he built, connecting him to coworkers and to the people he served during a career centered on helping others.

Away from work, Michael was known for being an outgoing free spirit with a strong sense of humor. People who knew him remembered his ability to tell a story and make his personality felt in a room. That energy was part of what made him distinctive to the people around him. His interests also reflected a practical, hands-on side, including woodworking and small-engine repair, pursuits that gave him ways to stay active and engaged beyond his professional life.

Michael’s family was another central part of the life he leaves behind. He is survived by his wife, Jennifer Wagar; daughters Delaney Wagar, Colleen Anderson, and Alexis Wood; granddaughter Zayda; and siblings Julie Wagar, William Wagar, and Kathy Wagar, along with nieces and other loved ones. Their relationships with him were built over years of shared experiences, family occasions, conversations, and ordinary moments that can become especially meaningful after an unexpected death.

For former colleagues and friends, Michael’s passing also closes a chapter marked by the stories and experiences they shared with him. His years as a paramedic gave him a professional identity, but the remembrance surrounding his death also emphasizes qualities that extended beyond the workplace: humor, energy, friendship, and a willingness to make himself known. Those personal impressions often become part of how someone is remembered when a sudden absence changes the rhythm of familiar lives.

The family has scheduled calling hours for September 23 and 24, followed by funeral services at noon on September 24 at Bissler & Sons Funeral Home in Kent. Burial will take place at Standing Rock Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Raptor Hollow or the Cleveland Animal Protective League. These arrangements give family, friends, former colleagues, and other loved ones an opportunity to gather, reflect, and honor a life that touched many people in different ways.

Michael Thomas “Woody” Wagar leaves behind a family who will carry his memory through the stories, humor, and experiences that defined their years together. His life included decades of service as a Cleveland EMS paramedic, retirement, family milestones, friendships, and interests that reflected his personality. For those who knew him, his absence may make familiar places feel quieter, but the memories of his larger-than-life spirit can remain a lasting part of the lives he shared. His legacy will live through those memories. His family will keep his memory alive.