In loving memory of a devoted educator and beloved friend, Helen (nee: Calvin) Miller Wagner, peacefully passed away on March 5, 2024, in Newberry, Florida, at the age of 86. Helen was born on October 27, 1937, at Corey Hospital in Chardon, Ohio, to proud parents Paul H. and Thelma B. Calvin, as their cherished fourth child, Helen Amanda.

Helen’s life was defined by her unwavering commitment to education and her deep love for her students. She embarked on her journey in academia, earning her Bachelor of Science in Education from Bowling Green State University in 1959, followed by a master’s degree in education from Kent State University in 1964. For 31 years, Helen dedicated herself to teaching in Chardon, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless students whom she guided with wisdom and compassion.

Beyond her passion for education, Helen found joy in the simple pleasures of life. For 55 consecutive years, she cherished the companionship of many Welsh B ponies at “The Cardinal Pony Farm” a testament to her enduring love for animals and the outdoors.

Helen’s heart was touched by love twice in her lifetime. Her first marriage to Kenneth W. Miller, Sr. brought her the love of her two stepsons, Kenneth W. (Katy) Miller Jr. and Keith (Margaret) Miller. After Kenneth’s passing in 1983, Helen found companionship once again when she married Lee Ernie Wagner in 2001. Together, they embarked on a new chapter of their lives in the warmth of Florida.

Helen’s legacy of love extends to her stepdaughter Laura (David) Badenhop and family, and stepson Scott L. (Christina) Wagner, as well as to her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Special recognition is bestowed upon her dear nephew David (Helen) Calvin and niece Bonny (Brian) Carrier, whose unwavering support was a source of comfort in her time of need.

In addition to her human companions, Helen found solace and joy in the company of her faithful canine buddies, Scooter, and Freckles, who brought light to her days with their unwavering loyalty and companionship.

Helen asked us to mention the impact on her life by the ones she adopted as her own extended family, made of friends and former students alike. Among those who she held so dear are Keith Miller, Angel Chudzik, Andrea Hauter, Christine Martin, Donna Temple, and Kevin Shea, she will be greatly missed by so many.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Helen’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at the First Congregational Church of Claridon, located at 13942 Mayfield Road, (Claridon Township) Huntsburg, Ohio 44046.

The memorial service will be livestreamed by The First Congregational Church of Claridon. For those unable to attend in person, please email claridoncongregationalchurch@gmail.com to receive the livestream link and join us in commemorating her life.”

In honoring Helen’s memory, she requested donations be made to the First Congregational Church of Claridon Endowment Fund or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Chardon, Ohio. Condolences and cherished memories may be shared online at www.burrservice.com.

In honoring Helen’s memory, let us carry forward her legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to education. She will forever be remembered for her warmth, her wisdom, and the profound impact she had on all who were fortunate enough to know her. May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love she so generously shared with the world.