Edward Harold “Fast Eddy” Wagner passed away peacefully surrounded by family in Ooltewah, on Friday, April 22, 2022 at the age of 83. Ed was born in Evanston, Il., on Aug. 31, 1938 to Edward and Mary Wagner, who encouraged his love of cars and all things fast at a young age. He owned and operated his own automotive business, wrenching on cars, motorcycles and snowmobiles.
He married the love of his life, Judith “Judy Bug” Wagner, in November 1959, and shortly thereafter settled into their family home in Lake Forest, Il., where they raised their three sons. When the family was not in their garage, at ice hockey, motocross or football, you could find them boating and fishing on Lake Michigan, where they shared many wonderful memories with family and friends.
After the loss of Judy in 1989, Ed continued to enjoy the waters, but found his heart pulling him back to classic cars and the dragstrip, where the “Wagner Racing Team” was born. Leading the pack of his racing sons and first-born granddaughter, Fast Eddy toured the asphalt in Union Grove, Indianapolis and the infamous Route 66. He enjoyed many concerts and travels in Illinois and Wisconsin with wonderful companions until last fall when he relocated to Ooltewah to spend more time with his family.
Ed is survived by his three sons, Craig (Michelle), Brian and Andrew; his seven grandchildren, Brianna (Ryan), Bailey (Ethan), Becca, Justin, Morgan, Jack and Alexandra; and his six great-grandchildren, Charlie, Autumn, Briar, Olive, Oakley and Aspen.
His ashes will be released from a parachute on the drag strip as well as laid to rest in August next to his wife in Lake Forest Cemetery, overlooking Lake Michigan. His family thanks you for keeping his memory alive!