Michael Thomas “Woody” Wagar, 64, of Akron, Ohio, died unexpectedly on Saturday, September 19, 2026, leaving family, friends and former colleagues mourning a man remembered for his humor, energy, service and larger-than-life personality.
Michael’s sudden passing has brought profound sadness to those who knew him, but the memories surrounding his life have also become a source of comfort. Family, friends and former coworkers are remembering the stories, laughter and experiences that made him such a memorable presence.
Michael Wagar Remembered for a Life of Service
A significant part of Michael’s life was dedicated to helping others through his career as a paramedic with City of Cleveland EMS.
He spent many years working alongside emergency medical professionals and providing care to people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
Michael remained in the profession until his retirement in 2022. His years of service gave him an opportunity to help countless people and made caring for others an important part of the legacy he leaves behind.
Those who worked alongside him remembered the pride he took in his career and the commitment he brought to his work.
Early Life and Family
Michael was born in Toledo on March 30, 1962, to the late Thomas and Norma Wagar.
Throughout his life, he developed strong relationships with family members, friends and colleagues. Family and friendship remained central to the way those closest to him remember him.
Beyond his professional responsibilities, Michael was known as a beloved relative and trusted friend whose personality could make even ordinary moments memorable.
Michael Thomas “Woody” Wagar Obituary Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full name | Michael Thomas “Woody” Wagar |
| Age | 64 |
| Residence | Akron, Ohio |
| Born | March 30, 1962 |
| Birthplace | Toledo, Ohio |
| Parents | Thomas and Norma Wagar |
| Profession | Paramedic |
| Employer | City of Cleveland EMS |
| Retirement | 2022 |
| Date of death | September 19, 2026 |
| Cause of death | Not disclosed |
| Known for | Service, humor, energy and strong relationships |
A Larger-Than-Life Personality
Michael’s personality was one of the qualities that made such a lasting impression on the people around him.
He was remembered for his humor, unmistakable energy and ability to bring life into everyday situations.
For family and friends, those characteristics became part of the stories they shared with him and will likely remain among the memories they carry forward.
His larger-than-life presence meant that his absence is now being felt deeply by people who became accustomed to having his energy and humor in their lives.
Colleagues Remember a Dedicated Paramedic
Michael’s former colleagues knew him not only as a coworker but as someone who dedicated years to emergency medical service.
Working as a paramedic can place people in challenging and emotionally demanding situations. Michael’s career involved helping others when they needed assistance most.
His retirement in 2022 marked the end of that professional chapter, but the relationships and memories created during his years with City of Cleveland EMS remained part of his life.
For those who worked beside him, his passing represents the loss of a former colleague whose contribution to emergency medical service will be remembered.
Family and Friends Mourn His Unexpected Passing
Michael’s death has left his loved ones facing an unexpected loss.
For those closest to him, grief is intertwined with memories of the person he was, from family experiences and friendships to the countless conversations and moments that shaped their relationships.
A sudden passing can leave relatives and friends with a strong sense of absence, particularly when they expected to have more time together.
As they mourn Michael, they are also remembering the laughter, humor and experiences that made their relationships with him meaningful.
Remembering the Moments That Made Michael Special
A person’s legacy is often preserved through the memories shared by the people who knew them best.
For Michael, those memories include his years serving others, the colleagues he worked alongside and the family and friends who knew his personality beyond his professional role.
Every story, conversation and shared experience represents part of the life he built over 64 years.
Those memories will continue to connect his loved ones to him as they adjust to his absence.
Cause of Death and Funeral Information
Michael Thomas “Woody” Wagar’s cause of death has not been disclosed in the available information.
His death was described as unexpected, but no specific illness, accident or medical circumstance has been identified.
Funeral, visitation, burial and memorial arrangements were also not included in the information available.
Additional details may be released by his family or another authorized source.
Michael Wagar’s Legacy of Service and Humor
Michael Thomas “Woody” Wagar leaves behind a legacy shaped by service, family, friendship and the distinctive personality remembered by those around him.
His years as a City of Cleveland EMS paramedic allowed him to serve people in difficult circumstances, while his relationships with family, friends and colleagues gave him a life filled with personal connections.
Those who knew Michael will continue to remember the humor, energy and generosity that made him stand out.
As his loved ones mourn, the stories they share and the memories they carry will ensure that his presence remains part of their lives.
Disclaimer
This obituary is based on information concerning the death of Michael Thomas “Woody” Wagar, 64, of Akron, Ohio. The available information states that he died unexpectedly on September 19, 2026, and identifies his career as a City of Cleveland EMS paramedic who retired in 2022. His cause of death and funeral arrangements were not provided. No specific medical condition, accident or other circumstance should be attributed to his passing without confirmation from his family or another reliable source.