1938 – 2026
With heavy hearts, the family shares the news of Wayne’s passing on Friday, June 5, 2026 at the age of 88. Wayne was a loving husband to the late Audrey (née Smith) and a caring father to Kevin (Louise) and the late Craig (Laurie). He was a proud grandfather to Aidan and Benjamin. He leaves behind his sister Patricia Knight, along with his late brothers Gary and Darwin. Wayne will be greatly missed by many extended family members, especially those he considered friends: Wendy & Charlie; Wanda & Paul; Lynn & Rose; Linda & Warren. He was predeceased by brothers-in-law Fred Smith, Joe Knight and sister-in-law Bonnie Dunne. His nieces, nephews, extended family, hockey friends, and numerous professional colleagues will also remember him fondly.
Wayne had a long career at Algoma Steel before retiring in 1993. After retirement, he became heavily involved in credit union volunteer work, serving as a board member and later Chair of ASCU Community Credit Union, Credit Union Central of Ontario, The Cooperators Group Limited, and Ontario First. His dedication took him and Audrey around the globe, but they treasured their time spent together in Ireland and across Canada during their travels.
Wayne found immense joy in his family life and home-especially at their beloved camp built at Havilland Bay. They enjoyed countless saunas, sailing trips, bonfires, barbecues while hosting loved ones with Audrey. Watching sunsets over Lake Superior with his sons are memories that will last forever. He cherished every moment spent with grandsons Aidan and Ben who brought him some of his happiest times.
Another love of Wayne’s was hockey. While he excelled in many sports like skiing, sailing, softball and bowling-hockey always stood out as his favorite. As a lifelong forward and Maple Leafs fan, he delighted in getting new hockey gear to skate with friends on the ice. Up until his mid-80s he played up to five times each week! Even after retiring from playing hockey himself he still made time for weekly get-togethers with fellow players. During baseball season though he’d switch gears as a dedicated New York Yankees fan.
The family is thankful for so many people: Wendy and Charlie have been steadfast supporters throughout this journey; Dr. Spadafora kept spirits high with compassionate care; Dr. Lam and Dr. Booth provided invaluable assistance along with nurses Leo and Sue from Bayshore Health; plus the wonderful team at Collegiate Heights; not forgetting nurse Makayla or palliative care doctor Dr. Schamp from SAH whose kindness made such a difference.
A private interment will take place at Greenwood Cemetery. Arrangements are managed by Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd., 705-945-7758). You can share fond memories or expressions of sympathy online at www. northwoodfuneral. com
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