Wayne Hellenga

Perhaps there are 4 other men in my life who share a place in my mind's Pantheon of memories. Mentor, educator (not teacher), example, friend...the list goes on and on. I hope that all who have come in contact with Wayne can, at times, remember what effect he had on their lives. At the same time, a prayer would be appropriate to thank the Creator for providing a man of Wayne's stature for our betterment. God bless you and your family, Wayne. AD MAJORIAM DEI GLORIAM!

So sorry to hear of Wayne's passing. My dad (Paul D. Hellenga) was just a few years younger than Wayne, and I do remember hearing about him when my dad was still alive. If I ever met him, I was too young to remember it... I can see from the condolence messages here that I missed knowing a wonderful person. I am sorry for your loss.

Jan and family. What a blessing to know that Wayne is now in our Heavenly Father's care.Rita Doddema

Jan, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Etta Kirk (Broekhuizen) Edwardsburg, Mi.

Wayne Hellenga was Decatur Superintendent when my mother, Dorothy Parker, and my sister, Marian Smith, were both teachers there, and I was a student. He was leader, mentor, role model, and friend, respected and appreciated by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Decatur was a better place because of Wayne Hellenga. Katie Parker-Ebbers

We will truly miss Wayne. He was a good friend. Our condolences to you Jan and your family.
Marlene Siskaninetz and family.

I want to extend heartfelt condolences to Jan and family on the passing of a man who meant so much to me and so many others. As a member of the DHS class of 1951 my fondest memories of Wayne were his enduring belief in the value of education and his respect for people. He was a man of integrity and honor. To say he will be missed is an understatement but I know that he is in a peaceful place, close to the God whose way of life Wayne followed on a daily basis. Well done, my friend.

I want to offer heartfelt condolences to Jan and the entire family. Wayne was, to me, a genuine example of the value of a real educator to younger people. Integrity, wisdom and concern were hallmarks of his existence. He is now with God and while we will miss Wayne we know that his rest is very well deserved. Well done, good and faithful servant.

Jan,
We were saddened to hear of Wayne's passing even though we knew he was close to being with his Lord.We grieve for our loss but should be thrilled that we had him for as many years as we did... for every day and year was a contribution he was making to us all. In mind, in service and in spirit. I remember him saying in one of our Bible study times that his father encouraged him to "leave the world a better place". Well, he sure did as we hear from the many respondents online and the...