Wayne Longe

Obituary

Wayne passed away at the Golden Dawn Senior Home in Lions Head, Ontario surrounded by his loving family and staff. Wayne was in his eightieth year and suffered from Parkinson’s disease and Lewy Body Dementia over the past decade.

Wayne’ s life began in Port Dover, born to Gordon [Sog] and Eileen Longe. Wayne leaves his best friend and partner of 40 years, Doris Longe. He will also be missed by his children, step children and grandchildren: Jason Longe [Tammie]; Heather MacNeill [Chris Swayze], Kevin MacNeill [Nathalie]. Wayne was special Grandpa Whale to: Leia and Cameron Swayze, and Lili [Gabriel] and David MacNeill. Wayne is survived by his dear sisters Betty Ann Hamm and Judy Kirk [Al], and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Dave and Donna Pibworth.

Wayne was predeceased by his son, Gordon Longe in 2018 and his brother-in-law Bob Hamm in 2017.

Wayne overcame years of childhood illness in the 1950s.

Wayne’s careeer for two decades included surveying for the Ministry of Transport (Ontario), and working for the American Can Company in Simcoe. At age 45, he attended Humber College to change his career path to Social Services. He took positions with the March of Dimes, Worker’s Compensation, Community Living and with homecare as a Personal Support worker for two decades. He also worked as a volunteer for Probation Services and other community agencies.

Wayne was an avid golfer and won the Men’s Championships at Stark’s and Lynn Meadows Golf Courses in Norfolk County. In retirement, Wayne and Doris moved to Southampton, where in prior years they had enjoyed their seasonal trailer. As a resident, Wayne become involved with the Historic Saugeen Metis community, where he served on the Metis Council. He has been a member of Southampton United Church.

Wayne and Doris enjoyed a decade of “snow bird” visits to Myrtle Beach as well as travel to many places. Wayne was a quiet and easy-going man, with a surprisingly succinct and witty sense of humor.

After Wayne was diagnosed with his illnesses, it became necessary for him to enter long term care. His family will be forever grateful for the excellent care he received from his staff, and Drs. Blau and Harpur.

Wayne’s family acknowledges with gratitude the amazing Lions Head and Saugeen Shores community and family support given to Doris and Wayne as they experienced their most difficult journey together.

Wayne’s wish to be cremated has been honoured. Memorial Service and Celebration of life will take place Saturday, November 26, 2022 at 11am at Southampton United Church, 18 Victoria Street South, Southampton. In the Spring/Summer (2023), a Celebration of Life gathering will take place in Port Dover, Ontario, at the Port Dover Yacht Club, for friends and family in that community, in recognition of their support over many years and to honour Wayne with their memories.

While Wayne may have traded in his golf clubs, but we are sure he is ‘swinging away’ with a quiet grin that will never be forgotten. FORE!

In lieu of flowers, donations to Golden Dawn Senior Home, Lion’s Head; Southampton United Church; or Alzheimer Society Grey Bruce to honour the people who have supported Wayne in his final years.