Caren C Wagoner

Caren Caye (Crant) Wagoner passed away on December 5, 2024, in Draper, Utah surrounded by family and loved ones. She was born on August 23, 1949, in Niagara Falls, New York to Cecil and Adeline Crant (Sea Shell City). Raised in Gaylord, Michigan, Caren was a 1967 graduate of Gaylord St. Mary’s High School. 

Caren studied business administration at Edison State College in Fort Myers, Florida (now known as Florida SouthWestern State College), preparing for a secretarial career. She worked as an executive assistant for Amoco Oil in Traverse City, Michigan, where she was well recognized for her proficiency and professionalism. Later, alongside her husband, Scott, she co-owned Wagoner’s Beach Barn in Bradenton Beach, Florida, and “C” Shell’s, Etc. Hallmark Store in Bellaire, Michigan, creating spaces that brought joy and connection to their communities.

In 1982, Caren married the love of her life, W. Scott Wagoner, beginning a partnership filled with love, adventure, and shared dreams that lasted until Scott’s passing in 2007. Their bond was one of mutual respect, kindness, and enduring love.

Caren was known for her extraordinary kindness, boundless generosity, and deep love for her family and friends. She cherished her Catholic faith and her country, both of which she held dear. An avid fan of Notre Dame football, Caren could often be found cheering on her favorite team with enthusiasm and pride. She was also a devoted animal lover who found joy and solace in their companionship.

Caren is survived by her daughter, April (Gordon) Ball, and her three beloved grandchildren: Kirsten, Alexis, and Austin. She is also survived by her stepchildren: Wendy Wagoner, Tammy (Jim) Patrick, and H. Scott Wagoner, as well as step-grandchildren Erich, Rosemary, Dan, and Lucas. She was preceded in death by her darling granddaughter Alyssa Patrick. Additionally, she is lovingly remembered by her five sisters: Susan Crant Carne, Betty Jo Crant Smith, Judy Anne Crant, Melody (Michael) Carey, and Daphne (Walt) Beringer. 

A celebration of Caren’s life will be held in the spring in Bellaire, Michigan where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved Scott, and where family and friends can gather to honor her legacy. In lieu of flowers, Caren requested that memorial contributions be made to an animal shelter in your local area, reflecting her love for animals and her generous spirit.

Caren’s warmth, humor, and unwavering passion for those she loved touched everyone who knew her. She will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose love and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.