Obituary of Iva Jean Wagner
We gather to celebrate the remarkable life of Iva Wagner, who passed away on November 19, 2024, at the age of 86. Beloved as a matriarch, friend, and inspiration to many, Iva’s legacy of love, resilience, and joy will forever remain in our hearts.
Predeceased by her husband, one son, and one daughter, Iva is survived by her two siblings, three children, 11 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren.
Born in Trail, BC, on February 27, 1938, to Joe and Helen Kisell, Iva was the oldest of three children. In 1941, the call of the prairies moved the family back to Consul, SK, where she spent the next 38 years. A new adventure began in 1979 with a move to Dawson Creek, BC, followed by a return to Saskatchewan in 1984, settling in the North Battleford area. Iva later moved to Provost, AB, where she retired, before relocating to St. Albert, AB, and, in 2022, to Red Deer to be near her family.
Iva began her career as a dedicated rancher, embracing the challenges and rewards of life on the land. She later brought her warmth, humor, and entrepreneurial spirit to the world of bowling, owning and operating the North Battleford lanes for several years. During this time, she organized annual bus tours, creating vibrant adventures as she gathered seniors for memorable cross-country bowling excursions. After successfully running the lanes, she entrusted their management to a dear friend and moved to Provost, AB, where she took on the challenge of managing the bowling lanes there. In retirement, Iva’s energy and versatility shone through once again as she co-owned Sidekicks Video with another close friend, proving her ability to thrive in any venture she pursued.
Her passions were as diverse as they were inspiring. She enjoyed painting, sketching and photography with an eye for capturing the beauty of the world around her. She also enjoyed writing and her words— whether in her popular 'Farm Chips' newspaper column or her beloved daily email blogs—were filled with wisdom, humor, and heartfelt reflections that resonated deeply with readers.
When she wasn’t creating art or writing, Iva could be found cheering on her favorite CFL football team, the Saskatchewan Roughriders, with unwavering enthusiasm. She had little patience for the NFL, often dismissing it as "football for sissies," insisting that only the CFL had the grit worthy of the sport. Her love for her team was infectious, and her cheers could light up even the coldest game day—or the quietest neighbors.
Iva had a deep and abiding love for nature, finding joy in its simplest offerings. She cherished the sight of buttercups each spring, their appearance signaled she was allowed to go barefoot, an expression of her free spirit and her disdain for socks. She encouraged her children to embrace life’s little adventures, even urging them to streak through the rain to feel the world’s raw, unfiltered beauty. Thunderstorms were an event to be celebrated; she would move the couch to the big picture window, and together, under a cozy blanket, the family would marvel at the lightning dancing across the sky. Iva embraced the weather in all its moods, from fiery sunsets that she adored to the sunrise her husband loved. She found beauty in every moment, teaching those around her to do the same.
In her later years, Iva found profound strength and comfort in her faith, which became a cornerstone of her life. Her relationship with God deepened, guiding her through difficult times and enriching her daily life with peace and purpose. Her unwavering belief in the power of prayer, love, and grace inspired those around her to see life through a lens of hope and gratitude.
Iva was a remarkable soul who left a lasting impact on everyone she met. Her radiant smile, warm embrace, and boundless kindness made all feel loved and valued. Despite facing significant loss and hardship, her resilience and optimism remained unshaken, reflecting her extraordinary strength and belief in life’s beauty.
Iva’s family was her greatest joy, and she was their guiding light, offering steadfast support, infectious laughter, and unconditional love. She created cherished memories that will endure forever—from taking her grandchildren on road trips and hosting them for month-long stays to celebrating Christmas at the bowling lanes. Her resilience, kindness, and zest for life were an inspiration to all, leaving a legacy of hope, faith, and compassion.
In following with Iva’s wishes, no funeral will be held.
We deeply appreciate the love and condolences that have brought us comfort. Donations in her memory to Whisker’s Rescue, supporting her cherished cat Tiana, https://whiskerrescue.com/help/ or the Red Deer Hospice, https://reddeerhospice.com/donate/ would honor her legacy.
Forever in our hearts
Her loving family
Condolences to Iva’s family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Wagner” in the subject line.
Arrangements in care of
Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service
A locally owned cremation and funeral provider
serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta
587-876-4944