Obituary published on Legacy.com by Moles Farewell Tributes & Crematory – Bayview Chapel on Mar. 5, 2026.
Wayne Arthur Holverstott, 87, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2026.
Wayne was born on April 7, 1938, in
Milwaukee, Wisconsin. As a young child, his family moved to rural Battle Creek, Michigan, where he developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors. From an early age, he loved fishing, hunting, hiking, and camping-passions that stayed with him throughout his life. Boy Scouts played an important role in his formative years, helping to shape his love of adventure and the natural world.
He attended school in Battle Creek and graduated from Battle Creek High School. In 1956, Wayne proudly joined the United States Navy, serving aboard the destroyer USS Vogelsang. After his time in the Navy, he continued his education at Glen Oaks Community College. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to Michigan and continued his service to his country as a member of the Michigan National Guard.
In 1960, Wayne met the love of his life, Martha Evans. They were married in June 1964 and built a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work. They had three children: Holly, Wayne Jr. (Chip), and Heather.
In 1979, Wayne moved his family from Michigan to Washington State, where they lived in Issaquah, Mill Creek, and Birch Bay. A skilled craftsman and entrepreneur, Wayne owned and operated his own construction company until his retirement in 1998.
Retirement did not slow Wayne's adventurous spirit. He and Martha moved to the Bay Islands off the coast of Honduras, where they served as missionaries. Wayne used his construction skills to support the mission, while Martha taught school. Their time there reflected their shared commitment to faith and service.
In 2025, Wayne and Martha relocated to
Tacoma, Washington, to be closer to their daughter Heather and son-in-law, John.
Wayne was an avid amateur photographer and firmly believed the Pacific Northwest to be a photographer's paradise. He loved to travel, capturing the beauty of God's creation through his lens. Known for his gift of conversation, Wayne never met a stranger. If you knew him, you knew he always had a story to tell-about an adventure he had or one he was planning next.
He was a devoted member of Northwood Alliance Church in Blaine, where he treasured his many friendships and remained active in church life.
Wayne has now begun his greatest adventure, reunited in his eternal home in Heaven with his beloved daughter Holly, his parents, and his in-laws.
He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Martha; his son, Wayne Jr. (Chip), and daughter-in-law, Angelina; his cherished granddaughter, Ana; his daughter, Heather, and son-in-law, John Shields; as well as two brothers and one sister.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Open Arms Childcare Ministries, P.O. Box 6605, Chula Vista, CA 91909.
At Wayne's request, there will be no memorial service.