Robert Gene “Robby” Wagner passed away on Jan. 18 2026, at the age of 56.
He was born on Sept. 6, 1969 and grew up in Mariposa, where he graduated from Mariposa County High School. During his high school years, Robby was involved in drama and held aspirations of becoming an actor.
He was known as natural charmer in high school and carried an easy warmth throughout his life.
He was a black belt in karate, played the piano, liked dancing and singing and had a lifelong love of music — especially his favorite band INXS, who he saw in concert many times.
Robby had a deep passion for cars and was highly knowledgeable about them. His last car, a bright red Mazda Miata, was his baby. He loved zipping around in it, carefree and loving life. He enjoyed attending car shows and spending time on Jeep outings, movie trips with his stepfather and best friend Bob Todd. The two shared a close bond and were true buddies, spending much of their time together.
Robby came from a family of five siblings: Rhonda, his sister, and his brothers Gilbert, Anthony and Ron Wagner. Robby was especially close to his mother and shared a deep and loving bond with her.
He devotedly cared for her until her passing in 2022, a role he embraced with love, loyalty and compassion.
He found his second family when he joined AA. It was a strong sense of belonging and purpose that he maintained for over 10 years. During that time, he helped others find their way and was always active and giving back in the fellowship he loved.
The fact that he passed right after being helped to listen to his much-loved Sunday meeting via Zoom helps many know he was with us in spirit until the end.
Robby is survived by his only child, his daughter, Samantha Hence; his brother Ron, and his father, Ronald Wagner; stepfather and stepbrother, Robert and Vince Todd, and multiple nieces and nephews.
He was loved by all those who knew him and will be remembered as a kind-hearted man whose presence will be deeply missed.
A celebration of life will be held on Feb. 15 at noon, at the Bootjack White House (5034 Darrah Road). It will be a sweets potluck for a sweet soul. Bring a few small servings of something sweet if you wish.
For more information, call his stepbrother Vince at (209) 626-6379. The celebration of Robby will also be on Zoom: Meeting ID: 890 4848 4807, Passcode: Robby.
Responses (0)