Carlos "Warren" Wagner

Carlos Warren Wagner, 79, of Muskogee, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2025. He was born on August 24, 1946, in San Antonio, Texas, to Carlos Swift and June Bump Wagner. A respected community leader and businessman, Warren was a man of honor and integrity who deeply loved his family and cherished his friends. Warren attended high school in College Station, Texas, before earning an MBA from Texas Tech University. While at Texas Tech, he and a group of like-minded friends founded the university's first competitive soccer team. These Red Raiders traveled throughout Texas, promoting what was then a novel sport. Warren met the love of his life, Chrissie Clark, in Houston, Texas. They were married six months after their first date and moved to Muskogee to plant roots and start a family. Warren retired as a financial advisor with Prudential Insurance and was owner/operator of Maxine Oil Company, a family legacy of over 70 years, until its sale in 2007. A dedicated servant to his community, Warren contributed his time and energy to several organizations, including United Way, the Good Shepherd Health Clinic, the YMCA, and Rotary. He also served on the Airport Authority Board, the Oklahoma Drug Board, and Monarch Recovery Board. Additionally, Warren was the president and later a trustee of the Sequoyah Outing Club. For the last nine years, he played an integral role in Fostering Hope, a nonprofit serving foster children across the state. Warren's proudest accomplishments were his children and grandchildren. The Wagner home was always open to friends and extended family, with Warren at the heart of it, often manning the Hasty Bake grill and making sure there was always room for one more plate at the table. A friend of Bill for 37 years, Warren’s commitment to the program and its principles was unwavering. His knowledge and understanding had a profound impact on many lives, as did his support, kindness, and ability to listen without judgment. Warren also found great joy at the Sequoyah Outing Club, which he considered his favorite place in the world. Days spent on the river, by the pool, or at the clubhouse with friends and family created memories that lasted a lifetime. He took great pleasure in watching his children grow up there and relished seeing his grandchildren now enjoying the same experience. Known as the undisputed "firework king," Warren’s Fourth of July shows became legendary, and many kids fondly remember running for their lives as the fuse sparked. In his later years, he could be found sitting on the back of his truck, cigar and Dr. Pepper in hand, directing the show and basking in the admiration of the crowd. Warren’s faith in Jesus Christ was the cornerstone of his life. A lifelong student of the Bible, he continually explored and deepened his understanding of scripture. While a devoted member of St. Paul United Methodist Church, he also found spiritual enrichment at Grace Episcopal and, more recently, The Brick—each community shaping and strengthening his walk with the Lord. Warren was committed to living out his faith, generously sharing both his beliefs and his handyman skills on numerous mission trips to Rio Bravo, Mexico, where he helped build homes for those in need. Warren's resilience and determination allowed him to overcome many health challenges. Despite ongoing heart issues, he faced each day with a “let’s get on with it” attitude, always focused on getting back to the people and activities he loved. He fought hard, never complaining, but simply wanting to make the most of each day—which he did. Warren is survived by his wife, Chrissie Clark Wagner; daughter Annie and son-in-law Greg Czaruk of Muskogee; son Ward and daughter-in-law Ally Wagner of Oklahoma City; daughter Catherine and daughter-in-law Caroline Schuepbach of Edmond; and son Tom Wagner of Oklahoma City. He was “AndDaddy” to Annebelle and Wagner Czaruk, June Wagner, and Elizabeth, Eleanor, and Margaret Schuepbach. He is also survived by his cousin, Alicia Bonnell of Fort Worth, along with extended family and dear friends. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the team at Saint Francis for their kindness, support, and patience during Warren’s care. A celebration of life will be held at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Muskogee at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, September 23. Memorials may be made to Save The Illinois River Inc. (STIR) or to a charity of your choice. "There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind." – C.S. Lewis Well done, Wag. Well done.

Carlos "Warren" Wagner

August 24, 1946 - September 19, 2025