Derryck Wagner

Derryck Wagner loved a good story, and loved it even better if his dog was on his lap and his family was by his side. He will be truly missed.

| October 2, 2025 1:43 PM

Derryck Edward Wagner, born Nov. 26, 1951, in North Dakota, passed away Sept. 26, 2025, at the age of 73. A proud Navy Vietnam Veteran and longtime resident of Moses Lake, Wash., Derryck lived with grit, curiosity and a heart big enough to carry his family and passions through every chapter of his life.

Derryck was a man who loved a good story — whether found in the worn pages of a Louis L’Amour novel, sung through the raspy voice of Willie Nelson, or shared on family trips and around a campfire on countless camping and hiking trips. He was a gearhead through and through, happiest with grease on his hands and an engine humming under his care. His love of the open road and wide skies carried him on many travels, yet he always returned to the grounding pull of family and the landscapes of Washington that he called home.

He was a lifelong learner, ever curious about the world, and he passed that same spark of wonder and resilience to his children: Angela Hedwall (David Hedwall), Melanie Bruce (Ammon Bruce), Krystal Wagner, Sherrie Armstrong, Tina Randall, Heather Cooper and Wylie Cooper. His legacy continues in his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who knew him as strong, loving, witty and endlessly encouraging. In October 2024, Derryck married Sharon Nickel, who shared in his laughter, adventures and care in his final year.

Derryck was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Edna Wagner, and his former spouse, Joyce Wagner.

He is survived by Sharon, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, his beloved dog, Peanut, his siblings, nieces, nephews and all who were fortunate enough to know and be loved by him.

Those who loved him will remember the way he made space for stories, music and family — his legacy written not just in words, but in acts of love and the living memories he leaves behind.

A memorial service will be held in Moses Lake at the Immanuel Lutheran Church on Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, where his family and community will gather to celebrate a life well-lived and a man well-loved.