William J. Wagner

William James Wagner, age 58, of Pompton Lakes passed away on Monday, December 6, 2021.

William was predeceased by his parents James E. Wagner and Edythe “Edie” Wagner (nee Adams). He was the dear brother of Craig Wagner and his wife Jeanne of Haddonfield, NJ; adoring uncle of Julie Wagner of New York City and Amy Wagner of Haddonfield; beloved long-time companion of Nancy Nolan of Pompton Lakes. He also leaves behind his dear cat Smoochie McBeautiful.

Bill grew up in Wayne, NJ and was a graduate of Wayne Hills High School, Class of 1981. He had been a resident of Pompton Lakes for the past thirty years. He had fond memories of happy summers spent with his family and friends at Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire and in Wildwood and Rumson, NJ.

Bill was the owner of Bill’s Auto Salon, where he meticulously detailed high end vehicles. He also worked restoring vintage cars and collected and sold antique auto parts. Because of his love for vintage cars he became an avid fan of American nostalgia, especially memorabilia from the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s. Bill’s happiest times were spent with his friends from the Sinners Vintage Car Club attending car shows like Lead East. He was always ready to lend a helping hand. Many a night he was turning wrenches with his club members, and with many members from other clubs such as the Wanderers, Statline Customs, D.M.C., Tri County Cruisers and the Kustom Knights. Bill was always willing to share his vast knowledge of antiques, toys, local history, and Hot Rodding with anyone who asked. When most didn’t know the answer, he always did.

Bill was a happy-go-lucky jovial man who loved to laugh. He was the king of sarcasm and an inside joke. He also enjoyed playing pool with his buddies. Bill loved people and they loved him back. If he called you “friend” you became family and he would do anything for you. He had a great respect and love of his country and its history and always voiced the need to preserve it.

Donation in William's memory would be appreciated to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America http://adaa.org or McPherson Collage Auto Restoration Program https://www.mcpherson.edu/autorestoration/redwrench