Kenneth Wagner

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved husband, father, mentor and friend, Kenneth “Ken” Ray Wagner, Sr., who departed our world on July 15, 2025 at the age of 84 after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. His passing brings a deep ache to the many lives he impacted with his strength, charisma, kindness, and unwavering dedication.

Born November 30, 1940 in Bogalusa, Louisiana, Ken lived a life rooted in integrity, compassion, and service. After completing his four-year enlistment in the United States Air Force, he joined the Louisiana State Police, serving alongside his father, Clarence Wagner.

The youngest Captain to retire from the Louisiana State Police at age 38, Ken joined the Southeastern Louisiana University staff as Professor of Criminal Justice. However, after five years as an influential educator, his true calling to protect and serve led him to Hallandale Beach, Florida where he served as Deputy Chief and later Chief, retiring in 1996.

Once again, his passion led him back to law enforcement, taking a position with the Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office, retiring for a final time at the age of 70. His 50-year career in law enforcement was marked by honor, bravery, and a steadfast commitment to justice. Whether walking the beat, mentoring and training young officers, or leading with confidence and wisdom, he earned the respect of his peers and the gratitude of the communities he served.

Ken’s academic credentials were equally impressive, holding both a Bachelor's and a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice. He was also a graduate of the FBI National Academy, the Northwestern University Traffic Institute, and the LSU Law Enforcement Institute, and earned several distinctions for his academic and professional achievements.

As proud as he was of his service and professional accomplishments, it was his role as a family man that Ken held most dear. He was the rock of his family — a loving and devoted husband of 63 years to his soulmate, Helene, with whom he shared a deep and enduring bond. Their marriage was a true partnership, together raising three children, Daniel “Dan,” Kenneth Jr. “Ken,” and Darlene. They, along with their spouses Robyn, Tanya and Jeff, respectively, and Ken’s cherished grandchildren, Christian Clay, Katie, Danielle and Nicholas, as well as great-grandson Oliver, are fortunate to have shared their lives with such a caring, insightful and utterly amazing man.

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