With profound sadness, we announce the passing of our patriarch, Robert Wayne, on Friday, January 23, in his 88th year. Wayne is survived by his wife of almost 65 years, Beverly (née Laufman), his children Ken (Denise) and Tracey Gaunt (Steve); grandchildren Jasmine (Jamie), Jacob (Hannah), Zak, and Sophie. Wayne will also be missed by his sister Leona Howe (Archie). Predeceased by siblings, Ed, Bruce, Joyce, Mildred, Rita, Dorothy, Cliff, Winnifred, Blanche, Helen, Mary, Margaret, Audrey, Maude and Howard. Brother-in-law to Carol, Diane and Ken. Pre-deceased by brother-in-law’s Sonny, Ron, Roy, Moe, Vern Laufman and sister-in-law’s Norma and Judy. Beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Wayne and Bev lived in the Dundas, Copetown area during their life together, where Wayne was very active in sports, playing fastball and hockey, where he last played with the Beverly Oldtimers. After his playing days, Wayne pursued officiating, becoming an OHA referee and an umpire. Wayne also had stints as General Manager of the Dundas Merchants Hockey Club and the Real McCoy’s Intermediate “B” Hockey Club. Wayne was truly liked and respected by everyone he met through business and sports. Special thanks to the staff at Margaret’s Place Hospice.
A service will be held on Saturday, February 7th, 2026, at Dundas Baptist Church, 201 Governors Road, at 11:00am, with a celebration of life to follow from 12:00 to 4:00 with refreshments at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations are kindly accepted at Margaret’s Place Hospice.
It was great to know Wayne as a friend and an old timer coach playing for him at Beverly. Many fond memories and our sincere condolences to his family. Glenda & John Weatherston
It was an honour and pleasure for myself and my deceased husband, Murray, to have known Wayne all of our lives. Murray played hockey with Wayne and many a good time was enjoyed with Wayne, Bev and the team at Larry & Pauline Wilson’s home.
I send hugs and condolences to Bev, Ken, Tracey and families at this very sad time.
My last and youngest uncle, Wayne shall never be forgotten. He was a part of many of my life’s benchmarks. I referred to him as Gunner and he made me proud by calling me the same. My thoughts are with Bev at this moment of grief.
I’m in all Uncle Wayne’s and Aunt Bev’s wedding pictures, but you cannot see me. Her wedding dress had a hoop and the wind kept blowing it up – I was about four years old – little enough to hide behind Aunt Bev’s dress and hold it down from the back. That day they made me feel like a Princess saying ‘ I saved the day.’ Love your neice Karen Lynn deLottinville
Sorry to hear of Wayne’s passing. He was a wonderful man who was always full of smiles, especially when talking about watching his grandchildren play hockey. Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time.
So sorry to hear of Wayne’s passing. I had the pleasure of having him as my Midget baseball coach in Dundas and it was always a blast playing for him. Such a fun-loving delightful person ! Rest in peace, unc !
I first met Wayne in grade 9 at DHS and played Bantam baseball with him. More recently, I enjoyed reconnecting with Wayne at gatherings of DHS classmates. My deepest sympathy to Bev and the deLottinville and Laufman families.
Respectfully,
wayne weaver
Markham