Wayne Joerling

It is with broken hearts that we share the unexpected passing of Wayne Joerling, 87, of Wildwood, Missouri on August 30, 2025, with his daughters by his side. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather and friend. Wayne was known for the twinkle in his blue eyes, warm smile, and keen sense of humor. He is survived by his adoring wife of 68 years, Joyce (Emery); his children: Janet Joerling - Leonard (husband Guy) and Dr. Linda Joerling - Francois (husband Ron); his grandchildren: Emily, Guy Jr., Russell, Rachel and Thomas. Wayne will also be missed by his siblings: Dale (wife Peggy), Dean (wife Cheryl) and Kevin (wife Linda). He was preceded in death by Raymond Joerling (father) and Opal Hoffmann Joerling (mother). 

One of the first babies born on May 3, 1938, at St. Francis Borgia Hospital in Washington, Missouri, Wayne lived a full and meaningful life. He met Joyce Danielle Emery at Faith-Salem Evangelical and Reformed Church in 1954 and married her at the same church aged 19 on December 21, 1957. They have been best friends ever since. Wayne’s work ethic is legendary. When not pitching in on the Hoffmann family farm most weekends growing up, he first became a mechanic for the Driemeyer Motor Company in Marthasville. From there, he was an officer for the Country Club Hills Police Department. After completing diesel and gasoline mechanics courses at the Bailey Technical School at age 22, his Signal Battalion of the Missouri National Guard was activated. He, Joyce and newborn Janet were sent off to Fort Campbell Kentucky, then to Army Signal School in Fort Gordon, Georgia with the 101st Airborne. By 1963, he was working for the Union Electric Company (Ameren) in St. Louis as a mechanic’s helper and in 1970 was promoted to the Supervisor of the Motor Transportation Department. Retiring after 33 years at UE/Ameren, he continued working as an Assistant Manager of Transportation for Richter’s, Dierberg’s and Kirkwood Florists also in St. Louis. 

Private family services were held on September 6, 2025, in Marthasville, Missouri. Wayne will always hold a special place in the many hearts of all who love him.