Laura Lynn Wagner, DVM, of Evansville, passed away on Monday, August 12, 2024.

She was the more eloquent among us, so please endure while we try to briefly capture her essence. This is the story of a woman who lived well and did things her own way.

Laura was born September 28, 1966, in Richmond, IN to the late Edward and Jean (Dezelan) Wagner. The family moved around a bit for Ed’s work, but she spent her formative years in Muncie, IN.

She completed both her undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia. She graduated with her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Degree in May of 1993. During her years at UGA she developed a deep love for SEC Football and all things Athens. Go Dawgs!

Following graduation, she practiced in Gainesville, GA, where funny enough, her first patient referral to a vet school as a practicing veterinarian was her own dog. She later moved to Evansville to help care for her father, and this is when she joined the staff at Westside Pet Hospital. It was then that her fierce streak of independence kicked in and she left to make her own way. McCutchanville Animal Hospital opened in May of 1999. For the next 25 years, she put her heart and soul into this practice, providing the utmost level of care to her patients. As a beloved veterinarian, Laura’s compassion will be missed by many pets and their humans.

She was a lifelong lover of music of all genres. She especially loved U2 and traveled the world over to attend shows, making many friends along the way. She also enjoyed spending time with friends and family, good food, great beer, fine whiskey, great coffee, decorating, gardening, photography, and all things Christmas (as anyone who had the occasion to pass by her home can attest).

But her greatest love will always be her beloved fur babies! At any given time, she could be expected to be surrounded by no less than four to five sets of paws. She leaves behind six, slightly ill-mannered, but well-loved babies; Arran, Pádraig, Lile, Maeve, Gemma, and Margot. They will most especially miss her.

Ziemer Funeral Home North Chapel will be handling the arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine online at gail.uga.edu/laurawagner. As she wished, a private celebration of life will be held at a later date. But should you be the sort to imbibe, please raise a glass to our beloved friend. Sláinte!

Also, cancer sucks!