Wagner Meters’ Founder, Delmer Wagner, Dies

Delmer Werden Wagner, founder of Wagner Meters, died on December 22, 2018 in Grants Pass, Oregon. He was 87.

Delmer was born on November 25, 1931, in Glendale, California. Delmer grew up on Sykes Creek out of Rogue River, Oregon. Following graduation at Walla Walla College, Delmer taught math at Lane Community College in Eugene, Oregon.

Delmer was a visionary who soon found himself developing moisture measurement systems for lumber mills. He started by creating the first transistorized systems, followed by noncontact systems and then was also the first to calibrate the measurements systems within percent moisture content – all things that are now mainstream in today’s industry.

He went from selling these systems out of the back of his van to building a business out of Rogue River, OR and then going international with his sales.

Never one to settle down and enjoy success, Delmer turned his sights on founding Better Life Television headquartered in Grants Pass, Oregon. From being initially told his dream was impossible, Better Life Television has grown to the point where it has significant coverage on much of the west coast of the United States.

Delmer is survived by his wife, Evelyn, who stood by his side for 65 years and even published her adventures with her inventor husband in several books. Also, his two children, Ed Wagner, whom he passed the Wagner Meters legacy to and his daughter, Judy Blair, an administrator in the healthcare system in Florida. Delmer also leaves five grandchildren, Eric Wagner, Chris Wagner, Shelley Lanier, Jeremy Blair, and Megan Blair. He has two great-grandchildren — Katelyn Lanier and Amelia Wagner.

In memorial, the family is requesting contributions to Better Life Broadcasting Network in lieu of gifts of flowers.

Wagner Meters

Wagner Meters is a family-owned American business that aims to provide solutions in moisture measurement technology that will enhance the quality and value of each customer’s project. With an almost 60-year legacy of innovation, Wagner continues to be a resource for both individual craftsmen and high-performance commercial endeavors.

Last updated on September 27th, 2019