TAMARA A. “TAMMY” WAGNER (NEE: ZIMMER) 

Age 60, of Leroy Twp., died December 23, 2022, at the Cleveland Clinic Main Campus. Born November 6, 1962, to Donald G. and the late Sandra J. (nee: Davies) Zimmer in Willoughby. 

Tammy married Guy in 1983, both having lived in Chardon, Ohio, since childhood. Their children, Brent Wagner and Stasha Garland, both have an incredibly close and loving relationship with Tamara and Guy. More than anything, Tammy’s love and adoration for her family and friends shined above all else. A meal prepared by Tammy was of course delicious, but the real secret to her recipes was the passion and warmth she put into each dish. It was in her nature to be a true giver, and even with her illness, she made sure to prepare dozens and dozens of scrumptious holiday cookies for everyone before heading into the hospital one last time. 

She welcomed her son- and daughter-in-law, Sean Garland and Lindsay Jarvis, with open arms and an open heart, always making them feel like part of the family. Her three grandchildren, Emma May, Remy Ann, and Eric brought an amazing joy into Tammy’s life, and she loved them fiercely. Their bright shining light was a beacon and source of strength for Tammy throughout her illness. Among some of the adventures that Tammy had with Emma, they loved to have tea parties and attend a weekly crafting event together at Lake Metroparks. With younger Remy, Tammy cherished all the snuggles, giggles, and “firsts” along the way. Tammy and oldest grandchild, Eric, loved to bake zucchini bread and banana bread, and work on crafts together in Tammy’s cozy home. 

Beyond her extraordinary love for family, Tammy was an intensely hard-working woman with a career in the grocery business for over thirty years, culminating in a promotion in Human Resources. She was a jack of all trades with a passion for baking, crafting, painting, wildlife, and hiking (just to list a few!). 

The overflowing generosity, kindness, and warmth so imbedded into Tammy’s personality is most evidenced in the number of lives she touched. As much as she gave love, she was loved back and then some. Her ever-growing list of close friends and family is too long to name individually, if you were touched by her, you know who you are. She was welcoming, kind-hearted, funny, and strong. After fighting harder than anyone thought possible, she lost her battle with cancer, and her loved ones lost their Wonder Woman. Tammy was and will always be a true warrior who passed away surrounded by so many loved ones, both friends and family. She will always be missed, but we will carry on her memory with continued acts of kindness, shared laughter, time spent with family, and unconditional love. 

The family would like to thank all the doctors, nurses, and hospital workers for their tremendous efforts and support. Because of their aide—in combination with Tammy’s undeniable strength—her family was given extra years, months, and days to see Tamara’s infectious smile, laugh with her, and share meals with her. They were even lucky enough to enjoy her handmade pizza—grilled over a fire—during a special trip to the marsh. 

Private services will be held at Burr Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating blood to your local blood bank or making a donation to Lake Metroparks Kevin P. Clinton Wildlife Center, 8668 Kirtland-Chardon Road, Kirtland, OH 44094.

Arrangements made by the Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Chardon, Ohio.

Information and condolences on-line at www.burrservice.com.