DeWayne C. Herendeen

DeWayne C. Herendeen

Born on April 4, 1941 DeWayne passed away peacefully with his family by his side at home after a brief illness at the age of 83 on October 2, 2024. DeWayne (Waynie) is survived by his wife Frances (Frannie) of 62 years. Also surviving are his 4 children, son in law, grandchilden and great grandchildren, Melanie Chaput (Clara and Lu Chaput), Martha Robertson (Brian) (Mathew Arnold), Elizabeth Herendeen (Samual Herendeen, Hannah Pier-Herendeen (Ellie and Jackson Pier), Maxwell and Micalah Herendeen), Scott Herendeen, (Jordan, Nathan and Aubrey Herendeen) along with his loyal dog and companion “Little Bear”. He is also survived by his extended Malarney and Herendeen family that he loved and cherished.

Wayne led a life of being well loved and respected by all who knew him. After a full career with General Motors, he retired, traveled with adventures and lived his best life. He was able to see new things and have experiences. One of the greatest was traveling to China 2 times to bring his grandchildren home. Being a grandfather gave him such pride in loving and accepting each of his grandchildren teaching them life lessons along the way.

There wasn’t a repair he couldn’t fix and was often referred to as “McGuiver” by his family. There isn’t a neighbor or passerby who wasn’t envious of his immaculate lawn and beautiful homestead. In most recent years he found his peace on his zero turn mower making sure there wasn’t a blade of grass out of place or puttering in his garage for hours on end. He was quick to help anyone in need including all of his family, friends and neighbors often welding or fixing something for them and enjoyed being able to do so.

He wore many hats (literally you never saw quite a hat collection like he had). He had several nick names. One special name which made him a grandfather and he took on the loving role known as “Paha”. He was a man filled with the warmest heart and the softest voice, tough when he needed to be and so very sweet knowing just when to pour on the love when someone needed it. He was also known as a man with a sense of humor loving a good wise crack or a practical joke. An avid sportsman hunting and fishing he spent many hours with a big idea of catching the “big one” on Lake Michigan salmon fishing or “slaying a trophy buck” with his brother, son and grandsons on his family property.

As we said farewell to the man who inspired us, supported us and loved us right up to the end we are grateful that he found his final time on earth knowing how well loved he was surrounded by the comfort of his family. We want to thank U of M Sparrow Hospital and U of M Hospice and special family friend (honorary family member) Julie for the amazing care, kindness and support that was given to our family. A celebration of his life will take place at a later date. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.

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