It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Cheryl Jean (Steensrud) Wagner, age 77, of Madison, who passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.

Cheryl was born on September 25, 1948, in Madison, Wisconsin, the daughter of Irey and Lois (Ramlet) Steensrud. She graduated from LaFollette High School and soon after began her career with the State of Wisconsin, where she dedicated over 30 years of service.

On February 26, 1972, she married the love of her life, Frederick “Rick” Wagner. Together they built a warm and loving home and raised their four children in DeForest, Wisconsin. Cheryl was also a proud and devoted grandmother to ten grandchildren, who brought her endless joy and filled her life with laughter.

She is survived by her loving husband, Rick; her children, Ryan (Kiley) Wagner of DeForest, Kristen (Jeff) Murawski of Verona, Shannon Wagner of Verona, and Lindsey (Daniel) Rodriguez of Fitchburg; and her cherished grandchildren, Briley, Greydon, Rogan, Levi, Gavin, Abigail, Liliana, Lucas, Jonah, and Daniel. She is also survived by her sisters, Debbie (Denny) Sachs, Pam (Jerry) Schkirkie, and Cindy (Nate) Phillips, as well as extended family and many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Irey and Lois Steensrud; her in-laws, Florence and Vincent Wagner; her sister, Laurie Steensrud; and her niece, Carly Mecum.

To us, she was more than a mother and grandmother — she was our home, our safe place, and our constant source of love and strength.

Though our hearts are heavy, we are deeply grateful for the life she lived and the love she gave so freely. Her legacy lives on in her children, her grandchildren, her many dear friends, and all who were blessed to know her. She will be dearly missed and forever loved

A Celebration of Cheryl’s Life will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Ryan Funeral Service & Legacy Center, 6728 Mader Drive, Madison, WI. A visitation will be held from 1:00 P.M. until the time of service. A luncheon will follow at the Funeral.

To view the obituary or leave a memory, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services
2418 N Sherman Ave
608-249-8257

Cheryl Wagner

September 25, 1948 - February 24, 2026

Share photos of Cheryl