Mad Hatter coworkers troubled by head chef dying while giving birth

A mother tragically died giving birth to her third child last week and her Sanibel Island coworkers are still coping.

Sarah Wagner worked as the head chef of the Mad Hatter restaurant on Sanibel Island, leaving her mark on the restaurant and community.

Wagner’s coworkers said she will be remembered for her menu items, inside jokes, and most importantly for her selflessness.

Max Kolshak owns the Mad Hatter restaurant but knows that Wagner was the one in charge.

“She pretty much ran the show. She controls the speed of the dining room,” said Kolshak. “She’s the inspiration. She’s the creativity. Koshak mentioned that Wagner’s impact went beyond the kitchen.

“She donated so much time at the American Legion and any fundraisers,” said Kolshak. “I mean, she just she was so selfless, like she would just care more about other people than, you know, than what she had going on in her life.”

Bobby Logue is the maître d’ at the Mad Hatter who met Wagner for the first time 12 years ago.

“I think Sarah kind of brought a big piece of the magic that we have here at the restaurant,” said Logue.

“How do I want her remembered? As most loving person around, I mean, it’s a huge loss of the Sanibel family, the Hatter and my family as well,” said Kolshak.

“Her demeanor, her bright smile, her wicked sense of humor,” said Logue. “So, I think that’s what we’re gonna miss. There’s still magic here. But without her there’s just a little less.”

The Mad Hatter restaurant shared a post on Facebook in honor of Wagner and shared how much she meant to everyone there.

Wagner’s husband said “I loved my wife more than I can ever express to anyone. She was my beacon, my light sunshine on cloudy days.” He said the family has had a lot of family coming and going and they’re thankful for their island family for all the support.

If you are interested in helping the Wagner family, you can donate at this fundraiser link.