Raymond R Wagner

Raymond R. Wagner, 80 years old, passed unexpectedly on Tuesday, December 25, 2018 at Westside Regional Hospital. Raymond was born in Chicago, Illinois on August 13, 1938 to late Trudy Aigner and Raymond Wagner, Sr.

Raymond is survived by his wife, Leonita Wagner; his children, Sara Henderson, Valerie Arnold, Mike Wagner; stepsons Paul and Eric Olaes; grandchildren, Justin and Quinn Henderson, Lauren (deceased), Kristen, Ashlyn, and Clayton Arnold; Megan Pagano; and four great grandchildren.

Raymond joined the U.S. Marine Corps at age 20 years old, and was a Gunnery Sergeant. He later studied Journalism and underwent dramatic training at the University of Miami. During 1963-1971, his passion for theater landed him roles on stages at the Ring Theatre, of U.M.; North Miami Playhouse; and the Coconut Grove Playhouse. Some plays he performed in are “Look Homeward Angel” by Ketti Frings, “Teahouse of the August Moon” by John Patrick, “No Time for Sergeants” by Ira Levin, and “The Rainmaker” by Richard Nash. Raymond also had a few extra roles alongside movie stars Telly Savalas, Nick Nolte, and Angie Dickinson in Hollywood, California under his acting name, Alex Hawk.

Along with the performing arts, Raymond was also active in sports. He played football for the Marines in Camp Lejeune, the University of Miami, and the Chicago Bears.  He played semi-pro baseball for Cape Fear in North Carolina. He also boxed for the Marines. Besides playing sports, he was also an avid fan. His favorite teams were the Miami Dolphins and Chicago Bears, L.A. Dodgers and Miami Marlins, Chicago Blackhawks and Florida Panthers, and the Miami Heat and L.A. Lakers. Other physical activities he enjoyed at an earlier age were skin diving, hunting, horseback riding, golfing, dancing, and playing tennis.  

One of his favorite passions was for fishing. He would often take a ride to a nearby lake or canal for some bass fishing or a trip on a boat for some deep sea fishing. He loved going out to art/music festivals or sharing some drinks with friends at a parties and gatherings. He enjoyed listening to music; some of his favorite artists were Rod Stewart, Barry White, Tina Turner, Gypsy Kings, Peruvian and Latin Music.

Raymond loved his family, children and friends. He had a great memory and would always share stories of times spent with the people he loved.

Raymond will be cremated, as requested.  There will be a memorial service on Saturday, January 12, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Gregory Catholic Church: 200 N. University Dr. Plantation, FL. 33324. There will be a reception to follow – details not listed for privacy purposes.