James E. Wagner, age 70 of Barryton, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 4, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia. He was born on October 3, 1941 in Grand Rapids, Michigan to Leo and Henrietta (Newhouse) Wagner. James made a career in the United States military where he enlisted and became a lieutenant in the Navy and a sergeant in the Army. Jim was honorably discharged following the Vietnam War. On June 18, 1997 he married Sandra McClure in Barryton and they began their life together. Jim was caring and compassionate and had a strong will. He enjoyed reading, the computer, hunting and wood working. Jim is survived by his loving wife of 14 years, Sandra of Barryton; four children, Michelle (Jeff) Wagner Autry of Lizella, GA, Marilyn (Sal Alkbar) Wagner of Memphis, TN, Christina (James)Vandewege of Plainwell, Lori Wagner of Lansing; three step-children, Bill McClure of Kalamazoo, Trevor Thor of Kalamazoo and Kimberly Terry of St. Louis, MI; Seven grandchildren and many close friends. Jim was preceded in death by his parents. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, October 17, 2011 at the Daggett Funeral Home in Barryton. Inurnment will follow at Chippewa Lake Cemetery with Military honors. The family will greet friends on Monday, one hour prior to services at the Funeral Home. Memorial donations in Jim's name can be made to the Mecosta Co. Commission on Aging for transportation.