Obituary of Rosa Wagner

Rosa Wagner, 94, of Seaside, CA, passed away on March 2, 2022 after many glorious rotations around the sun. Born in Spinimbecco, Italy on March 28, 1927, she was proud of her Northern Italian heritage, but even more proud of becoming an American citizen.

She met her beloved husband, George, while he was stationed in Italy with the U.S. Army. They married and the military life took them to many beautiful places around the world. They ultimately settled on the Monterey Peninsula where she put down roots and made many lifelong friendships.

She retired from her position at the Naval Postgraduate School Uniform Shop after 16 years of dedicated service. She was a skilled seamstress and her work was in demand from her clients for many years upon her retirement.

In her later years, Rosa spent her time caring for her granddaughter, socializing with her friends and family, and reading. She stayed up-to-date on current events and never missed an episode of Jeopardy. Rosa was an avid reader, who enjoyed historical and romance novels, but she loved nothing more than to keep her company laughing and well-fed. Her “nana cookies” were a family favorite and were shipped around the world. She showed her love through her cooking, especially her spaghetti and she never turned down dessert.

Rosa was preceded in death by her husband, George; son, Gianpaolo ‘Paul’ Wagner; and sister, Yolanda. She is survived by her devoted daughter, Martha Wagner Moss (Robert), her granddaughter, Enjolina Campbell (Ian) and three great-grandsons, Evan, Adam, and Oscar, who brought her so much joy, love, and laughter; her daughter-in-law and confidante, Maria Wagner; grandsons, JohnPaul ‘Butch’ Wagner, Fred Heimstra (Camille), John Heimstra (Andrea), and Andy Heimstra (Lisa); great-granddaughters, Lexie (Eduardo), Abigail and Aspen (Carson), and great-grandsons, Andrew, Freddy, and Jordan (Donna); three great-great grandchildren; and her brothers in Italy, Sinezio Rodin (Rosetta), Ginetto Rodin (Rita) and her many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her daughter through marriage, Sarajane Briner.

She was blessed to have many wonderful friends and neighbors in her life and they were equally blessed to have her in theirs. Her generosity and warmth was unmatched and all who had the fortune of having even the briefest conversation with her walked away smiling, marveling at her sharp wit and playful sense of humor. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Mary Anne Will, her thoughtful and loving neighbor and friend.

At Rosa’s request, no services will be held. A celebration of her life is planned for later this summer.