July 9, 2024

In loving memory ~

It has been over 6 months

since his heart stopped beating,

but our hearts are still aching...

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the passing of our husband, father, son, and brother, Wayne. On July 29th, 2024, Wayne passed away at St. Paul's Hospital with his family by his side. His final days were a testament to his strength and determination. After undergoing open-heart surgery where he experienced many challenging complications, Wayne remained courageous and positive for his loved ones, putting on a brave face to allay their fears. This was Wayne...putting the thoughts and feelings of others before his own, caring for and loving his family first, just as he had done throughout his life.

Born to Mike and Joanne Meyer in Prince Rupert, the family moved to Sechelt for Wayne's early years, then to Wayne's true home: the Comox Valley, where he graduated from Highland Secondary School. Wayne was considerate, kind, and loyal to his parents and brother Dennis, and sincerely enjoyed his time with all his cousins, uncles, and aunts, and grandparents.

Wayne's true calling as a family member came when he met and married the love of his life, Polly. After dating for 10 years, they married in 2002. They lived in Pitt Meadows, BC and Little Buffalo, Alberta, before coming back home to the Comox Valley to raise their family. Wayne was a devoted, adoring husband to Polly, and then a dedicated father to his daughter Erika and son Gavin. Wayne's world revolved around his family. He was endlessly proud of his two kids, always speaking of them with a smile and a heart full of love.

He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Pauline (Polly), daughter (Erika), son (Gavin) his parents (Mike & Joanne), brother Dennis (Tanya), mother in-law Kathy Brown, brother in-laws Austin (Keri) and Tim (Melanie), sister in-laws Rosie (Julian), Shelley (Adam), and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his father in-law Philip Brown.

Wayne's kindness extended far beyond his family. His friends, who were like family, will remember Wayne for his sarcastic sense of humour and his loyal friendships. Moments spent camping, barbequing in the back yard, mountain biking, playing hockey, chatting over a beer and telling stories and bad 'dad jokes' will be treasured memories. He was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back or help with no questions asked.

Wayne loved being independent and started working at a young age. From his first job at McDonalds, to his last job at the Town of Comox, Wayne was a loyal, trusted and competent employee. He worked for Tayco Paving, Columbia Bitulithic and Emcon where he became a member of the Operating Engineers as an Equipment Operator. He took pride in being able to run many machines (paver, roller, backhoe, grater, dump truck, snowplow and vactor truck). He was a dedicated employee and cared about his co-workers.

His generous spirit touched everyone he met, and he leaves behind a legacy of kindness and selflessness that will not be forgotten.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Edward Howard for the care and attention given to Wayne over the past two decades. We would also like to acknowledge the quality of care received from the doctors, nurses and staff at both our Comox Valley Hospital and the Cardiac Department at St. Paul's in Vancouver. The family must also acknowledge the support and generosity of Wayne's friends, the community that is the Comox Valley and the Town of Comox through Wayne's journey. It should also be noted that Wayne was a cancer survivor of twenty years and passed cancer free.

Our family has been deeply touched by the overwhelming number of people who reached out to offer support during Wayne's last weeks, and to offer condolences and continued support after his passing.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday July 19th, 2025 at Airforce Beach Pavilion at 1:00pm