Ernie's to host Wagner benefit

After a fatal car accident, a benefit is set to support a Cokato family

By Kristen Miller
Staff Writer

A benefit is planned for the family of Shelly Wagner Friday, July 27 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Ernie’s Bar in Winsted.

Wagner was killed in a car accident June 13. She leaves behind her husband, Mark, and three children, Kalvin, 12, Anna, 7, and Bethany, 4.

The benefit will include all-you- can-drink beer from 5 to 9 p.m. with a wrist band, and there will be door prizes every hour. White Horses Band will be playing from 9 p.m. to midnight, as well.

Tickets are $5 in advance and $7 at the door. Funds from the benefit will be matched by Thrivent Financial.

Wagner worked at Alongside Services in Cokato taking care of developmentally-disabled adults. She was also an organ donor.

She will be missed by her many friends and former co-workers.

“Shelly was always willing to lend a helping hand. She liked to laugh and share funny stories. I will miss her laugh,” said Judy Herrig, Wagner’s supervisor at Alongside Services.

Wagner also worked for a short time at Casey’s in Cokato. “Shelly was fun, energetic, and all the customers knew her. My kids loved going to her house. She was never ‘Shelly’ she was always ‘Shelly Wagner.’ If she wasn’t working, she would take my boys overnight and give me a break whenever I needed,” said Nicole Moe, former co-worker at Casey’s.

A memorial fund is also set up at the State Bank of Cokato. For more information about the benefit, or to purchase a wristband, contact Rebecca Holmquist at (320) 286-9991 or (320) 286-9969.