Wayne Albert Luchenbill, a beloved son, father, grandfather, and friend passed away unexpectedly in St. Joseph, Mich., Friday, Aug. 26, 2016, at the age of 72.

He was a resident of Kosciusko County, for the past 26 years. He resided in both Leesburg and Lake Wales, Fla.

With his drive to learn, he graduated in 1962 as the salutatorian of Durand Area High School, and went on to receive a degree in Mechanical Engineering and his Masters of Business from Michigan State University.  He then began his career at Procter & Gamble and followed his entrepreneurial dream of owning his own successful business, Electric-Tec.

Wayne lived to the fullest by enjoying countless hobbies: dancing, kayaking, boating, hunting, golfing, bike-riding, ATV’s, landscaping, building, politics, investing, and spending time with friends and family both on his land and throughout the world.  Wayne was very proud of his children’s accomplishments. He was a wonderful grandfather and happiest teaching and supporting his grandchildren.

Wayne was born on April 8, 1944 in Flint, Mich. to Albert “Al” LaVern Luchenbill and Donna Mae (Harkness) Luchenbill, who both survive in Lake Wales, Fla.

He will be lovingly remembered by his two sons: Brian (wife Angela) Luchenbill (Portland, Ore.); Kevin (wife Jessica) Luchenbill (Westfield); two daughters: Julie (husband Jeev) Trika (Naples, Fla.); Lisa (husband Jeb) Sloan (Twin Falls, Idaho); and seven beloved grandchildren.

He also leaves behind three brothers: Bob (wife Barb) Luchenbill (Lake Wales, Fla.); Dave (wife Cindy) Luchenbill (St. Charles, Mo.); Tom (wife Sandy) Luchenbill (Winter Haven, Fla.); as well as many nieces, nephews, and a huge network of friends that loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his grandson, Charles Sloan.

Visitation will be held from 4–7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 31, at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, 225 Argonne Road, Warsaw. His funeral service and a time for sharing will follow immediately at 7 p.m. A memorial service will be held at Cyprus Ridge Church in Winter Haven, Fla. at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 3.

Memorial donations in Wayne’s memory may be directed to Big Brothers Big Sisters, 1603 N. Detroit Street, Warsaw, Indiana  46580 and would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be sent through the funeral home’s Web Site at www.redpathfruthfuneralhome.com