Canandaigua - Roy Benson Wager, age 86, passed away peacefully at home, on Saturday, February 7, 2026, with his family by his side.
Roy is lovingly survived by his wife of 64 years, Margaret (Higley) Wager; two children, Debra (Charles) Gallagher and Scott (Danielle) Wager; three cherished grandchildren, Courtney Gallagher, Emily Gallagher (fiancé, JT Hollon), and Jacob (Mary) Gallagher; two sisters-in-law, Sandra (Quayle) Wager and Beverly (Higley) Carlson; and several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by three brothers, Paul, Donald and Kenneth Wager; three sisters-in-law, Patricia and Eleanor Wager and Judy (Brown) Higley; two brothers-in-law, William Higley and Albert Carlson.
Roy was born in Canandaigua and was the son of Douglas and Mildred (Benson) Wager. He was a proud graduate of Canandaigua Academy, class of 1957. Roy served his country in the Army National Guard from 1959 to 1962.
Roy’s career reflected his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. He spent most of his career as a successful self-employed wallpaper hanger and later in retail, as the owner of Wager Sign Co. and R&D Truck Accessories.
Roy was a member of the American Legion Post 256 and the Elks Club of Canandaigua. He was an avid golfer and played several courses over the years and was a former member of the Canandaigua Country Club, Victor Hills, and CenterPointe Golf Club. He also found great enjoyment in bowling at Roseland Bowl and spending time playing cards with good friends. Roy and Margaret treasured family vacations to Florida and Cape Cod and were especially grateful to spend more than 20 winters together in Florida.
Roy will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who deeply loved his family and especially treasured time with his grandchildren.
In accordance with Roy’s wishes, there will be no services. Memorial contributions may be made to the Canandaigua Emergency Squad, 233 N. Pearl St., Canandaigua, NY 14424 or to The UR Medicine Home Care Foundation, Box 278996, Rochester, NY 14627. Arrangements are by Johnson-Kennedy Funeral Home, Inc., Canandaigua. Condolences may be offered at www.johnsonkennedy.com.