REPUBLIC, MI – Wayne Allen Vadnais, age 72, passed away peacefully on Friday May 22, 2026, at UP Health System – Marquette, surrounded by the love of his family and the compassionate care of the ICU staff.

Wayne was born on September 25, 1953, in Ishpeming, Michigan, to Dolphus and Tyyne (Maki) Vadnais. The youngest of five children, Wayne learned early in life the value of hard work from his mother, a lesson he carried with him throughout his entire life. From delivering newspapers as a young boy to retiring after four decades in the mining industry, Wayne believed there was always work to be done — and he was never afraid to do it.

He attended the Republic Schools and graduated from Republic Michigamme High School with the Class of 1971. Although knee problems kept him from participating in sports, they never slowed his adventurous spirit. Instead, he developed a lifelong love for the outdoors, cars, and animals.

Wayne began working for Cummins Diesel after high school before joining the Empire Mine in 1973 as a summer student. He remained there for 40 years as a dedicated heavy equipment operator, retiring in 2013. He took pride in his work and the life he built in Republic.

At a graduation party, Wayne met the love of his life, Sherry. The two were married on October 6, 1979, at Bethany Lutheran Church in Republic. Together they built a life rooted in family, laughter, and the outdoors. After living in Ishpeming and Negaunee, they purchased property in Republic and built the home where they spent the rest of their years together.

Wayne was happiest outside — whether in the woods during deer season, out on the water fishing, or riding his side-by-side down back roads with Sherry. He especially loved sharing those moments with his family. His children fondly remember learning to fish and hunt from a very young age, and deer camp was never just about hunting for Wayne — it was about family, stories, and making memories.

An animal lover through and through, Wayne always had a dog by his side and as a child he had many unforgettable pets, including a pet skunk and a talking crow that became well known around town. His loyal dog Sootie remained his faithful companion in recent years.

Wayne had a wonderful sense of humor and a quick wit. He loved teasing others, telling stories, and making people laugh. Whether around a campfire, in the garage, or at the kitchen table, he could always be counted on for a good laugh or a memorable story.

Wayne is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Sherry; his son, Brian (Jackie) Vadnais; daughter, Sarah (Travis) Starkey; granddaughter, Elsie Starkey; sister, Nancy (Robert) Kerkela; brothers-in-law, Ross (Dorie) Kaleva and Douglas (Sandra) Kaleva; and his beloved dog, Sootie; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dolphus and Tyyne; his brothers, William, Eugene, and James; parents-in-law, Norman and Patricia Kaleva; and his cherished dogs, Angel, Gypsy, and Chauncey.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the ICU staff at UP Health System – Marquette for the exceptional care, kindness, and compassion shown to Wayne and his family.

Wayne will be remembered for his hardworking nature, his love of the outdoors and animals, his devotion to family, and the laughter he brought wherever he went.

A memorial service will be held on Friday May 29, 2026, at Bethany Lutheran Church in Republic. Wayne’s family will greet friends and relatives from 11:30 a.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m. Pastor Alex Ross will officiate. Immediately following the memorial service, a luncheon will be held in the Bethany Lutheran Church Hall. Internment will take place in the Republic Cemetery at a later date.

A full obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where relatives and friends are invited to leave notes of remembrance.