James F. Wager, Jr.
MALTA — James Frank Wager Jr., 96, of Malta, New York passed away on July 20, 2025, at Wesley Community, Saratoga Springs after a period of declining health.
He was born on January 11, 1929, in Gloversville, New York. James was the son of the late James F. Wager Sr. and Camilla M. Wager (Togni) of Gloversville.
James proudly served in the U.S. Navy from January 1946 to November 1947 as a Fireman 1st Class. James first served on the USS New York BB34 during the Operation Crossroads Nuclear Weapon Test at Bikini Atoll of the Marshall Islands in July 1946. He then served on the USS Iowa BB61 where he completed his tour of duty.
James worked as a Food Broker Salesman for many years and serviced grocery stores throughout the Capital District.
He was a member and coach of the Saratoga Winter Speed Skating Club where he trained many boys and girls, some of whom went on to the Olympics. Among other hobbies James was a long-distance cyclist, snowmobiler, small engine technician, landscaper and loved fishing in all types of weather conditions.
James was predeceased by his lovely wife of 38 years Gloria F. Wager (Regina), his brother Donald Wager of California and sister Marguerite Kenison of Glens Falls.
He is survived by his seven children. Marie (Tina) DeVore (George) of Malta, NY, Gloria (Lori) Gould (Gerard) of Mooresville, NC, Phillip Wager (Cindy Sue) of Crossville, TN, Jeffrey Wager (Rhonda) of Newcomb, NY, Corina Stark (Darrell) of Waxhaw, NC, Cynthia West (Paul) of Mechanicsburg, PA and Andrew Wager (Laura) of Round Lake, NY, 17 Grandchildren, 27 Great Grandchildren, 1 Great-Great Granddaughter and numerous nieces and nephews.
At his request his body was donated to the Anatomical Gift Program at Albany Medical College. A private service will be held on a later date. Memorial contributions in memory of James may be made to Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
The Wager Family offers a heartfelt thank you to the many caregivers from Community Hospice and Wesley Health Care who cared for James over the past year.
Online remembrances may be made at www.armerfuneralhome.com.