Wayne C. Wise 1933-2025

Wayne was born June 8, 1933, in Kent, the son of Chester and Vera Wise.

He graduated from Kent Roosevelt High School in 1951. Wayne proudly served in the Army 11th Airborne from 1953-1955.

He will be missed deeply by his wife of 71 years, Dorothea K. Wise, whom he married Dec. 29, 1953.

Wayne is survived, not only by his wife, but also his three children, Dorene (Bill) Willis of Quitman, Arkansas, David (Erin) Wise of Columbiana and Karen (Tom) Sapp of New Waterford. He also leaves to cherish his memory, six grandchildren, Jim Heasley, John Heasley, Nicole Walker, Joseph Sapp, Aftyn Shah and Lindsay Mumma; 15 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law.

Wayne is formerly from Berlin Center, where he worked for Texaco for 30 years and was a lifelong master carpenter, building the home he raised his family in until 1980. He transferred to West Virginia and then Texas, working on the Tex New Mex Pipeline in Ozona, Texas. He retired from Texaco in 1989 and moved to Cherokee Village, Arkansas. The Wises moved back to Ohio in 1993, raising cattle and residing in Columbiana.

Wayne belonged to American Legion Post #131 Leetonia. He was a 34th degree Mason, Scottish Rite Deerfield #430. Wayne was a Shriner for years, driving families to Shriners Children’s Hospital. He served as a volunteer firefighter for 26 years in Berlin Center.

Wayne and Dorothea participated in Wagon Train for two years. He was Dorothea’s “stable boy,” helping to show draft ponies at the Canfield and Lisbon fairs. He served as ringmaster for horse and pony shows for over 20 years at both fairs.

Wayne was a member of the zoning commission for Fairfield Township and worked part-time at Rogers Flea Market for 18 years.

Wayne never met a stranger and had a strong work ethic that he instilled in his children. He was a lifelong Browns fan and enjoyed all sports. He was known for quirky, quick comebacks. He lived and died the way he wanted, on his terms.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his younger sister, Cora Sue Swogger.

His family is appreciative of the love and help of caregivers Patty and Diane, as well as Jenny’s loving help.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date.

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