Raymond A. Wagner
Raymond A. Wagner, in loving memory of Ray
GROTON — Raymond A. Wagner, known affectionately by his friends as “Cosmic Ray,” 67, passed away on Friday, March 27, 2026, in the comfort of his home in Groton, surrounded by the friends and family who loved him so dearly.
Born March 19, 1959, in Pittsburgh, Pa., Ray studied geology at SUNY Cortland and spent 35 years working as a geologist and environmental scientist, most recently for Arcadis.
He spent his formative years in Zelienople, Pa., and Olean, before moving to Groton, where he and Kristen raised their three children.
Ray’s life was rich with interests and hobbies. His love of the natural world was reflected in his environmental work as well as his time spent hiking, traveling and camping in the many beautiful places of the U.S. He also loved discovering new music, running marathons, riding his motorcycles, brewing beer and finding time on Otsego Lake to kayak and paddleboard. His family reflects fondly on the many nature walks he took them on over the years, and the summers they spent by the Finger Lakes swimming, playing rummy and sitting around a fire late into the evening.
Ray was a kind and generous friend who was quick to lend a hand or a sympathetic ear. Those who met him always felt a special bond of friendship. Ray’s ability to connect with people was a gift that touched many. He was so uniquely himself throughout his life, and even in the face of his diagnosis of glioblastoma, he took everything in stride.
The family asks that instead of flowers, anyone who wishes to can make a donation to the following organizations for glioblastoma research and grants: https://glioblastomafoundation.org; https://www.abta.org; and https://kimshope.org.
