Wayne Byron McKenzie, age 77 of Roberts, formerly of Houlton, passed away October 15, 2019 at The Deerfield Gables in New Richmond.

Wayne was born January 16, 1942 at the family home in Frederic, WI, to Lloyd and Hazel (Paulsen) McKenzie. He grew up around Grantsburg and graduated from Grantsburg High School in 1960. Wayne was united in marriage to JoAnn Larsen on February 1, 1964, in St. Paul, MN. Their marriage was blessed with three children, and the family resided in Houlton, WI, where Wayne and JoAnn would stay for 40 years before relocating to Roberts. Wayne worked as a production welder for several companies, most recently Cannon Conveyor in Rosemount, MN.

Wayne was a strong and tenderhearted man who was truly devoted to his wife, JoAnn. He loved his family and would do anything for them; and cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren. Wayne was an avid sportsman and was always ready to spend the weekend hunting, fishing or just passing the time at their cabin in Luck, WI.  He enjoyed bowling and golf, playing cards, and cheering for the Badgers and the Packers.

Wayne is survived by his wife of 55 years, JoAnn; children, Cheryl (Jeff) Olsen of Stillwater, MN, Scott McKenzie of Portland, OR, and Jerry (Tammy) McKenzie of Hudson; grandchildren, Meghan (Trevor) Olsen-Trombley of South St. Paul, MN, Lauren and Ryan Olsen of Stillwater, MN; Max, Kaitlyn, and Rachel McKenzie of Hudson; siblings, LeRoy (Geraldine) McKenzie of Luling, TX, and LeNore Rasmussen of Roberts; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Hazel McKenzie; sister, Dionne (Donald) Reichstadt; brother-in-law, Clifford Rasmussen; and sister-in-law, Rosemary McKenzie.

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 3:00-6:00 p.m., with a short prayer service at 5:45 p.m. on Sunday, October 20th, at The Deerfield Senior Living’s Chapel, 1127 W. 8th St., New Richmond, WI. Instead of formal attire, please wear your favorite Packer or Badger gear. His family would like to graciously thank the staff at The Deerfield for their love and kindness while providing wonderful care and support.