Wayne Ray Meier, 80 of Hendersonville, North Carolina, passed away on Saturday, January 28, 2023 at Wake Forest Hospital in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Wayne was born in 1942 in Howard, South Dakota to the late Herman and Fern Meier.
Wayne graduated from Spencer High School in Spencer, Iowa and then enlisted in the United States Air Force, he served as an aircraft mechanic from 1963-1967 at Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda, Michigan. While stationed at WAFB, Wayne met his wife Barbara (Hartman) Meier and they were married for 52 wonderful years. Wayne was always an avid sports fans and loved nothing more than being in a gym or at an athletic event. He was heavily involved in youth sports throughout his life as a coach, MHSAA official, fan and an active member of the athletic boosters club. Even after moving to North Carolina, he continued to attend local high school events.
Wayne also had a great passion for golf and would spend every free moment he could get on a golf course. He amassed an extensive collection of golf clubs and was even known to practice his swings inside the house.
The thing that will be most remembered about Wayne, is his heart for service. Wayne was always looking for a way to give back to kids, the community and those that were less fortunate. Wayne was a founding member of the Food Pantry of Edneyville and devoted countless hours a week volunteering at the pantry to ensure that those in need had an opportunity for weekly food. It brought him great joy to interact with the people that came to the pantry and he had a special place in his heart for the kids that came in, he kept a supply of candy and treats to hand out to each child.
Wayne is survived by his wife, Barbara (Hartman) Meier; his daughters, Cheri Meier (Shannon Wonnacott) and Becky Pentz (Ray) both of Oscoda, Michigan; his sister, Nancy Meier of Hendersonville, North Carolina; and the light of his life, his one and only grandson, Cole Busby of Virginia Beach, Virginia; he is also survived by his grand pets, Kyra, Bella and Parker.
Memorial contributions in Wayne’s honor may be made to the Food Pantry of Edneyville, P.O. Box 170, Edneyville, North Carolina 28727 or if you choose you may honor Wayne by simply giving back or volunteering in your local community.
A celebration of life will be planned at a later date.
Barb and Girls:
We have many fond memories of your family from our days at Wurtsmith. Barb and Wayne we so kind to us and our young family. Know that we are praying for all of you and send our love.
Joe and Ellen Newell
I have known Wayne for many years. He was quite a character and has left me with so many memories. Will miss you.
Wayne made me feel so welcome when I came to volunteer at the Food Pantry. He always had a smile for everyone. He will be missed.
There are so many great memories of Wayne he will be missed by everyone who knew him and loved him. Rest in Peace Wayne.
Wayne will be remembered by me for his sweet smile and his devotion to the Edneyville Food Pantry- He will be greatly missed- love to you Barbara and your girls.
Wayne Meier was a gentleman and true friend. His wife Barbara worked in the pediatric clinic with me at Wurtsmith Air Force Base. It was during this time that all of us spent time together at their home and on the water. Wayne was an excellent auto repairman and painter and lived for sports. His wife and 2 daughters meant everything to him. I never met anyone who did not enjoy Wayne’s company. My wife Sue and I will miss Wayne very much and extend our deepest condolences to his family
I loved Wayne Meier he had such a wonderful personality. He is greatly greatly missed ❤️