Wayne M. Waggoner

1929 - 2025

Wayne M. Waggoner

December 28, 1929 - August 7, 2025

On August 7, 2025, the world lost a truly remarkable man. It is with heavy hearts, we share the sudden passing of Wayne M. Waggoner, a.k.a. The Wagonmaster, at the age of 95.

Born December 28, 1929, in Centerville, Iowa, Wayne grew up on the family farm and hatchery during the Great Depression. He was the third of four children born to Walter and Kathryn Waggoner. In high school he met the love of his life, Beth Moore, and the two married in 1950. Together they built a life raising three children-David, Mary, and Jay.

Wayne's working life began alongside his father, hauling eggs and chickens from the family's hatchery. What started with a single truck in 1951 grew into The Waggoners Trucking, a business that would span more than seven decades. Through grit, determination, and an entrepreneurial spirit, Wayne built a company that served industries across North America and Canada-from agriculture and lumber to heavy machinery, oilfield equipment, and automobiles.

His proudest achievement came in 1987 with the launch of The Waggoners Trucking Automobile Transportation Division, which grew into the largest family-owned, non-union car-haul company in the country. At its peak, this division employed more than 1,500 people and transported over a million vehicles each year. Even after selling the auto transport division in 2013, and later the LTL division in 2019, Wayne remained actively involved in the company until his final day.

While his business accomplishments were remarkable, Wayne was most admired for his character. A fearless leader, gifted storyteller, and tireless inventor, he never stopped working to improve the lives of truck drivers and the industry he so dearly loved. His kindness, fairness, and generosity inspired lifelong loyalty among employees, many of whom worked with him for decades. Tributes from across the country after his passing reflect the profound impact he had on so many lives.

Beyond trucking, Wayne and Beth shared a passion for dancing, country music, and giving back. Together they supported countless charities both locally and nationally, leaving a heritage of philanthropy that matched Wayne and Beth's love for people and community. In 2013, Wayne was honored with the Centerville High School Distinguished Alumni Award, a recognition that meant a great deal to him.

Wayne is survived by his children David (Lily), Mary (Henry), and Jay (Connie); granddaughters Ann Morgan and Beth Cheng; sister Janet Zellers; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Beth in 2021; his parents; and his siblings Margaret and Paul. Honoring their wish, Wayne's ashes now rest with Beth's.

A celebration of Wayne's life will be held at The Northern Hotel on Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Please join us to celebrate the life of this extraordinary man. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter Capital Campaign.

Wayne Waggoner leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and vision. He will be deeply missed but always cherished and remembered by those of us who had the privilege of knowing him.

"Keep on Truckin,' Wagonmaster. You can't beat smilin.' It's good fer ya."