Daniel Wagner, age 30, died on January 5th, 2026.

Daniel was a beloved son, brother and father who felt deeply and loved his family with his whole heart. He had a sense of humor that could surface unexpectedly and bring light into difficult moments. He found joy, comfort, and connection in playing video games, where he could immerse himself, relax and spend time with others, a passion he shared with his father, Scott.

Daniel was a talented and passionate cook who took great pride in his work as a chef at several local restaurants. He was especially proud to have created a signature dish at one of those restaurants-an accomplishment that reflected both his creativity and dedication. He loved good food in all its forms, whether it was a well-cooked steak or a familiar favorite like Taco Bell, where he never skipped ordering a Baja Blast - no ice.

He enjoyed playing pool and was teaching his mom to play. He also loved to play chess and go to the driving range, especially with his Grandpa Lonergan.. Dan was very close to his Grandpa, an empathetic and supportive mentor to him always. His grandpa lovingly referred to him as "Dan the Man" and the "Candy Magnet," nicknames that reflected Daniel's charm and the affection they shared. Daniel also shared many lunches out with his Grandma Lonergan, moments that brought him comfort, routine, and connection.

Dan deeply loved his twin brothers, Andrew and Christopher, and shared a special bond with them. He often wished he could be a "third twin," a reflection of how much he wanted to be close to them and part of everything they shared. When Chris' wife Michelle joined the family, he found a supportive friend who always treated him with kindness and compassion.

Daniel was very proud to have participated in the creation of an instructional video for high school students titled One, Two, Three, Then Me. The video was produced by the Seven Valleys Health Coalition, in collaboration with the Think Again Group, ThoughtWerks Production, and the Mental Health Foundation. It was created to help students understand that there should be no stigma around mental health issues and to raise awareness that one in four people experience a mental disorder. This work reflected Daniel's desire to be open, to educate others, and to help reduce shame around mental health struggles.

Daniel lived with serious mental health and substance use challenges. These struggles were real and often overwhelming, but so was his courage. He faced more than many people ever have to, and he continued to try, to endure, and to show strength even when the weight was heavy. His battles do not define him, but they do speak to his bravery.

Daniel was the father of Joshua, Delilah, and Ariana. Even when he was not able to be with his children, he always carried them in his heart and loved them deeply.

Dan would want to express heartfelt gratitude to the many agencies, hospitals, and care providers throughout the Syracuse area who treated him with kindness, compassion, and dignity during his journey. The care he received and the people who met him with empathy meant more to him and his family than words can express.

Those who knew and loved him remember his sensitivity, his depth of feeling, his humor, and the moments of connection that mattered so much. His life mattered. He mattered. He was loved beyond measure by his family. Especially his mother, Kathleen Lonergan, who loved and supported him through every good moment and every hard time, and who never stopped believing in him. He is survived by his children, his family, and all who loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the Spring. Donations can be made in his honor to: Devin's Rec Room - https://www.devinsrecroom.org/ or to NAMI of Syracuse - https://namisyracuse.org/