Waylen Wayne Appel

Per Waylen's request, only Fresh Cut Floral Arrangements will be displayed at the church.
Waylen Wayne Appel, a beloved resident of Woodward, OK, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2025, in Woodward, OK, surrounded by his loving family. He was 77 years old.
Waylen was born on March 19, 1947, in Shattuck, OK, to the proud parents of John L. and Frances Marie (Black) Appel. He spent his early years growing up on the family farm in the southwest of Arnett, OK. Waylen began his educational journey at Bishop Country School, continuing until the fourth grade, after which he attended Arnett Public School. He graduated with the class of 1965, marking the start of a lifelong pursuit of knowledge.
He furthered his education at Southwestern State College, graduating in 1969 with a bachelor's degree in education. His passion for teaching led him to embark on a 9-year career as a schoolteacher, where he had the joy of nurturing young minds.
Waylen's talents extended beyond the classroom. He discovered his love for floral arrangements and became a skilled florist, dedicating 30 years to creating beautiful bouquets and decorative pieces. He also ventured into the restaurant industry, demonstrating his culinary talents to the delight of many patrons. More recently, he found fulfillment as a funeral assistant, where his compassion and dedication touched the lives of grieving families.
Waylen was not only dedicated to his work but also to his family. He was blessed with two children, a son named Bryan Todd and a daughter named Susan Lynn. His seven grandchildren, Ryker and Kasen Appel of Shattuck, OK, Blake and MiKayla Appel, Kensey, Braylon, and Kayleigh File of Amarillo, TX, brought immense joy to his life.
In addition to his professional and family pursuits, Waylen had a deep passion for spending quality time with his grandchildren and cheering on the Thunder Basketball team. His community involvement included membership in the Shattuck Chamber of Commerce, serving on the Board of Regents at Altus Jr College, and holding the position of President of the Oklahoma Unit of Teleflora.
Waylen's faith was a cornerstone of his life, having been baptized at a young age. He was a dedicated member of the Faith United Methodist Church in Woodward, OK.
Waylen was preceded in death by his parents, John and Frances Appel, his grandparents, Ludwig and Louisa Appel, and Dale and Edith Black, as well as his brother and sister-in-law, Harlan and LeEtta Appel.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. Those who will forever hold him dear in their hearts include his son Bryan Appel of Shattuck, OK; forever daughter-in-law, Nicole Appel; his daughter Susan Appel of Amarillo, TX; grandchildren Ryker and Kasen Appel, Blake Appel and wife MiKayla, Kensey, Braylon, and Kayleigh File; his nephews Dustin Appel and son Emery of Houston, TX, and Cody Appel and wife Kasey and son Boland of Shreveport, LA; a host of other family members, special friends Sherman and Cheryl Lauder, other friends, and his precious dog and running buddy, Lucy.
Waylen's light will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew him. His kindness, dedication, and love for his family and community will be remembered and cherished always.
May Waylen rest in eternal peace, knowing that he made a lasting impact on the lives of those around him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Shattuck Meals on Wheels or the Woodward Faith United Methodist Church, a cause close to Waylen's heart. In care of Shaw Funeral Home, P.O. Box 276, Vici, OK 73859.
A service to celebrate the life of Waylen Appel will be held on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Woodward Faith United Methodist Church. All those whose lives were touched by Waylen are invited to attend and pay their respects.