November 12, 1951 – April 8, 2018
Longtime Blaine resident Rex A. Wayne passed away at his home on Sunday April 8, 2018, after a valiantly fought but mercifully short battle with cancer. Originally from Prineville, OR, he was born November 12, 1951.
Considered by all who had the privilege of knowing him as "such a great guy," he will always be remembered in town for riding his bicycle everywhere he went. He left Oregon on his bike in 1981 and rode it to Blaine, and then worked on his Uncle Gary McGee's fishing boat in Alaska. He was especially close to his Aunt Nancy and Uncle Gary.
Back in Blaine after the Alaska trip, he began working at the local restaurant Vista Pizza, where he became "family" to everyone who was fortunate enough to know him. And, was especially close to the Middlekauffs, who owned and operated the restaurant. So many of us will remember that no one else on the planet could grill a steak as well as Rex could!
When his years of cooking at Vista came to an end, he went to work for the Lawrenson family at the International Cafe/Motel, where he was also looked upon as "family", and was there until the restaurant closed in 2006.
His most recent work "family" was the wonderful people of Healthy Pet (Ferndale), who were truly caring and supportive during his last months.
He is preceded in passing by his parents, Robert and Joan Wayne of Prineville, his aunt Nancy (Gary) McGee of Blaine, and best friends Patrick Kennedy and Howard "Monty" Henderson who were like brothers to him.
He is survived by his sister, Jackie Wayne Murrders of Prineville, nieces Angie, Jody, and nephew Coby, uncles Tom (Pat) of Bend, OR and Larry "Butch" of Las Vegas, NV, aunts Rosie of Salem, OR and Gail of Prineville, along with several cousins, including Cindy Morberg of Custer, WA; also great-nephews Dylan, Garrett, Trei, Domanic, Issac, and great-niece Darci. His partner and best friend for over a decade, Sandy Baker, resides at their home in Blaine.
At his request, there will be no formal services. There will be a party/celebration of his life later this year, which is what he wanted. The date and time are to be decided, but anyone wishing to attend should send a message to his email
waynerex797@gmail.com, and they will be notified when the plan is in motion.
The world is a much sadder place for him being not in it. He will be truly missed.
