WOODBURY- Gerald Vanwagner, Sr., 67, of Woodbury, died Saturday, January 16, 2010 at Waterbury Hospital.

Mr. Vanwagner was born October 28, 1942 in Bridgeport, son of the late George and Helen (Matusewicz) Vanwagner. He has resided in Woodbury for the past 9 years, previously living in Bridgeport. Mr. Vanwagner had worked for Avery Abrasives as an industrial machinist for many years. He volunteered at the Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport, where he lead and taught the children's programs. Mr. Vanwagner was a US Air Force Vietnam veteran. He liked attending car shows especially with his prized antique 1955 Thunderbird that he enjoyed riding.

He leaves a son, Gerald Vanwagner, Jr. and his wife Susan and their children, Austin and Greyson Vanwagner of Woodbury and a daughter, Mary Kim Finaldi and her daughter, Victoria Gracy of Bethel, CT.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Connecticut Beardsley Zoo, 1875 Noble Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06610.

Location: Munson-Lovetere Southbury

Services: A prayer service will be held at 2: 30 p.m. on Saturday, January 23d at the funeral home.

Visitation: A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, January 23d at the Southbury Funeral Home of Munson-Lovetere, 235 Main St. North from 1 p.m.-3 p.m.