Jean E. Wagner, 78 of Kouts, IN, passed away Thursday, August 6, 2026. She was born September 1, 1947, in Peoria, IL, to the late Henry and Adeline (Tuffentsamer) Tennell. Jean was a loving and devoted homemaker for her family. She was a member of Kouts Christian Church, where she had served with the Ladies’ Aid. Jean was a talented seamstress who could make just about anything. She made her daughter’s childhood clothing, as well as designed and sewed many Halloween costumes, and even created costumes for mascots and the Easter Bunny. Jean created many beautiful oil paintings, which she generously gave as gifts to those who were lucky enough to receive one. In her free time, Jean enjoyed reading. She passed her love of books on to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, rewarding them with special trips to Barnes and Noble. Family was the most important part of Jean’s life, and she loved spending time with them. She will be remembered for her outgoing nature, persuasive personality, and kind heart. Jean will be dearly missed.
On June 14, 1969, in Highland, IN, Jean married the love of her life, Charles “Chuck” Wagner, who survives, along with their daughter, Rhonda (Jeff) Hagan of Portage; grandchildren: Breann (Chris) Hall, and Jeffrey (Candice) Hagan; great-grandchildren: Masyn, Avery, and Shelby; and many loving nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her siblings: Robert Tennell, Phyllis Gambetti, Mary Swisher, and Shirley Van Nattan.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Kouts Christian Church, 208 S. Poland Ave., Kouts, with a memorial service beginning at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Kouts Christian Church or the American Cancer Society.
GUESTBOOK
Sorry Chuck and Rhonda and Family for your loss Gene is a beautiful lady, kindhearted and compassionate Full of the Love of God, prayers for all of you. -Wayne Winkler
Jean was a great friend in our earlier lives and we had alot of laughs together. My children loved going to places with her because she always made sure they had fun. We have wonderful memories of spending time with her. God must have needed another angel. -Sharon (Jarnecke) Bogaert
So sad to hear of Jean's passing. Prayers and Condolences Chuck and to all her family and friends. -Janet and Gary McDonald
So very sorry for you Chuck and the whole family on such a big lose. Jean was such a lovely person and so much the Wagner family Peg and I wanted you know of our sadness and extend our deepest condolences to you all. May Jean have Heavenly Rest In Peace!! -Peggy and Rich Kalmas
With love, -Denny and Kathye Heinrichs
I'll always remember Jean as such a joyful person. She was always so kind to me, and she even taught me how to swim. I'll always be grateful for those memories. She will be missed. -Eric Sieker
