Wayne E. Baumgarten's Obituary
Wayne Edmund Baumgarten passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, January 31, 2024. He was born on April 9, 1952 to Marjorie and Edmund Baumgarten of Casco Township. He graduated from Richmond High School.
He grew up spending much of his time working with his Uncle Marvin on his grandparents’ dairy farm. During that time, he looked forward to Sunday suppers around his grandmother’s kitchen table with all his aunts, uncles and cousins. When his cousins began their families, he had fun getting to know their kids and watching them grow up and start their own families.
Eventually, Wayne became self-taught, self-employed as a heavy-equipment and farm-implement mechanic, owning his own business and building his career serving the local farmers.
Over the years, Wayne enjoyed frequenting some of the local restaurants and made fast friends of his regular servers. He was always interested in what was going on in their lives, and was quick with his share of jokes and teasing, as well.
Wayne was active in the Casco community, most notably working with the Township in various roles. He especially enjoyed his role as Constable and was always current on the local news and events.
Prior to his health challenges, he was frequently seen helping out a neighbor or a friend—many of whom were quick to return these favors when Wayne became homebound. Over the last few years, Wayne was extremely appreciative of those who helped with the lawn work, the snow shoveling, taking out the trash, providing the hot meals, the phone calls, the words of encouragement—along with so many other random acts of kindness.
Wayne was a lifelong, loyal, and active member of St. James United Church of Christ in Casco, happy to lend a hand at the church wherever he could.
He is survived by his cousins and their families, and several very close friends. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents and other extended family members.
A memorial service will take place at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, February 5 at Young Colonial Chapel Funeral Home with visitation prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to St. James United Church of Christ in Casco Township. To leave a message of condolence, please visit: www.youngcolonial.com
What’s your fondest memory of Wayne?
What’s a lesson you learned from Wayne?
Share a story where Wayne's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Wayne you’ll never forget.
How did Wayne make you smile?