Theta Chi Fraternity mourns the loss of Brother Mike Wagner (Zeta Psi/Western Illinois 1971), who entered the Chapter Eternal on February 18, 2026. Brother Wagner was a devoted Resolute Man whose grit and determination with the Pittsburgh Steelers established a true dynasty.

A standout Leatherneck at Western Illinois, Mike went on to an extraordinary NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers starting as safety during his ten-season career—on all four of the franchise’s 1970s championship winning teams (’74, ’75, ’78, and ’79). His impact reached far beyond the field, felt through the relationships he built, the time he invested, and the steady example he set for those who knew him.

As we remember and honor his life and legacy, we share his interview from the Summer 2022 issue of The Rattle below—a chance to hear Mike’s story in his own words and to celebrate the legacy he leaves with our Fraternity.

Read Mike's Interview Here