Wayne Bennett died January 18, 2024, after a short hospital stay for a broken hip.

Wayne was born in Los Angeles, California. He lived there until he and his wife and two children moved to Medford, Oregon in 1957. A third child was born in Medford.

He is survived by his three children Dick (Missy), Nancy, and Shirley (Randy), three grandchildren Kelly (Sara), McKenna (Drew) and Emma, and four great-granddaughters, Camryn, Montgomery, Graci and LaRya. He was predeceased by his wife Norma and his grandson Chad.

Wayne was a residential contractor, but was most proud of his time teaching Phoenix High School students how to build a house—from drawing up the plans to hands-on construction. In his later years, Wayne traded in his hammer for wood carving tools and paintbrushes, donating much of his artwork to his retirement home and living family members.

He was very involved with Boy Scouts for many years, and received the highest award, the Silver Beaver, for his service. As an avid outdoorsman, hunter, fisherman, skier, and backpacker, Wayne enjoyed spending time in nature. When he wasn't hunting chukar with his brother Loren (who predeceased him in 2023 at age 96), he could be found running, golfing and bowling with several different teams over the course of his life.

He was an active member at Zion Lutheran Church for over 60 years. Wayne could always find something to laugh about, and held a positive outlook on life. He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the Boy Scouts of America.

A celebration of life is being planned for June in Bend, Oregon.