| Kyle Thomas Wagner was born January 16, 1983 in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. He lived in Sheboygan until his 14th birthday when his family moved to South Ogden, Utah, where his dad had taken a different job with the Air Force Reserve. Kyle's family moved back to Wisconsin in 1999 and made their home in the city of Franklin. Kyle enrolled in Franklin High School, and graduated in 2001. Kyle had been co-captain of the school's basketball team, a varsity golf team member, a member of the National Honor Society, and a member of the school band.
Kyle was Congressman Gerald Kleczka's principle nominee to the United States Air Force Academy and received his appointment in 2001. While at the Academy, Kyle was a proud member of Squadron 31, the Grim Reapers. He also was a member of the Catholic Choir, participated in a variety of intramural sports including rugby and team handball, and was presented 24 Prop and Wings pins by upperclass cadets in recognition of his achievements during his first year at the Academy. Kyle loved his fellow cadets and was determined not to let them down. He looked forward to taking advantage of every opportunity the Academy had to offer him while proudly serving his country.
Kyle's journey through life was sustained by his strong faith in God and love of family; character traits that were noticed and praised by his peers, instructors, and family members. Kyle had a magnificent, ever-present smile and a gift for making friends wherever he went. He was our hero and will be sorely missed until we see him again.
Kyle is survived by his parents, Dennis and Lynn; his brother and best friend, Kurt; his grandparents, Bud and Elsie Wagner and Patricia Mehring; aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends across the country.
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