Martin James Wagner

A master carpenter, devoted husband and proud father, Marty James Wagner passed away peacefully on June 26, 2021.

Born on July 5, 1951, in Astoria, OR, Marty was raised in Eureka, CA, where he spent his formative years at Sacred Heart Catholic School. He then moved to Rohnert Park, CA, and graduated from St. Vincent de Paul High School.

Marty was born to be a dad, a fact which came to light early when his own father passed away and he had to step into a parental role for his mom and younger brother and sister.

Later he married his wife Dana (with whom he shared a birthday) and they had a son, Ryan, who was Marty’s perpetual pride and joy. When asked about his proudest accomplishments, “raising my son” was at the top of Marty’s list.

He did everything for his boy, from coaching Little League to helping with Cub Scout projects to constantly teaching him invaluable life skills. Cruising through the Sonoma mountains with Ryan on the back of his Sportster motorcycle was one of his favorite memories.

A rugged man with a stellar smile, Marty was known for his brute strength and powerful hands — hands that could pull a redwood tree out of the ground. Always happy and positive, he exuded optimism and thoroughly enjoyed his life — particularly his favorite hobby, skiing.

Marty had everlasting endurance, a trait which came in handy in his profession as a master carpenter. His talents were used to build beautiful, noteworthy structures across Northern California; he remodeled San Francisco City Hall and the Opera House, and constructed high-end custom homes throughout Sonoma and Marin County.

He also helped his lifelong pal Jon Pronzini start and grow the Pronzini Christmas tree business, an endeavor he was committed to for 50 years. Marty was devoted to his friends, always keeping in touch via telephone with his signature “you know” and lending a hand wherever it was needed.

In his retirement, he enjoyed hitting the slopes at Tahoe’s Sugar Bowl, working on his Glen Ellen house and helping Dana with her gardening.

Marty is survived by Dana, Ryan, his daughter-in-law Alexis, his grandchildren Landon and Ashton, his brother Chuck, sister Trish and stepdaughter Danae. His legacy of strength and love will live on in the hearts and minds of all who knew him. In the words of Frances de Sales: “Nothing is so strong as gentleness. Nothing is so gentle as real strength.”

Mass of Intention Marty’s Alma Mater

Saint Vincent de Paul Catholic Church

35 Liberty Street Petaluma, CA 94952

July 25, 2021 at 10:30 am

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