Wayne Lionel Plucheck

Wayne Lionel Plucheck, born December 4, 1937, went home peacefully on his birthday, December 4, 2025, at the age of 88. He passed at his home surrounded by his loving family, with his devoted bride of 70 years, Elizabeth “Betty” June (Baca) Plucheck, by his side after his long and courageous battle with cancer.

Wayne was born in Wray, Colorado to Roy Lionel Plucheck and Twyla Maurita (Cross) Plucheck. He often reflected with pride on his early childhood spent in a sod house on the eastern Colorado prairie—memories that shaped his character, resilience, and deep appreciation for simplicity and hard work. When he began school, the family moved to Denver, though he continued spending his summers in Cope and Joes, keeping his rural roots close to his heart.

He graduated from West High School, where he met the love of his life, Betty. Teenage sweethearts, their bond endured through seven decades of marriage — a rare, beautiful testament to steadfast love and partnership.

A man of extraordinary work ethic and determination, Wayne began his career as a machinist at General Iron Works (GIW), following in his father’s footsteps. Recognizing his potential, GIW sent him to The University of Colorado Boulder, where he advanced his technical skills. He rose through the ranks to become an Engineer and later was the plant Production Manager, when they were bought out by Stearns Rogers, earning respect for his leadership, precision, and commitment to excellence.

Always financially savvy, Wayne found creative ways to support his love of the great outdoors, sportsmanship, and family travel. He built a garage in his backyard and opened Wayne’s Garage, a small business that reflected his ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit.

When GIW eventually closed, Wayne transitioned to Lockheed Martin, first in Florida and later returning to Colorado to work at the Littleton facility. His expertise made him a valued member of every team he joined. At the age of 54, he retired from his engineering career—an accomplishment made possible through decades of discipline and careful planning. Retirement became a new opportunity: he successfully managed investment rentals and stock portfolios, approaching this chapter with the same steady hand and analytical mind that guided him throughout his life.

Above all else, Wayne was a family man. He spent his final days surrounded by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and step-grandchildren—an immeasurable gift that brought him peace and comfort as he said goodbye.

He is survived by his wife, Betty, and his children:

• Mary Eava June (Baca-Plucheck) Currence

• Wayne Lionel Plucheck Jr. and his wife Susan Plucheck

He is also survived by his beloved sister, Rita (Plucheck) Beasley and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and step-grandchildren.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents and by three of his younger sisters:

• Ramona (Plucheck) Darling

• Darla (Plucheck) Hollard

• Joan (Plucheck) Ake

And his son-in-law Keith Francis Currence.

Wayne was the proud patriarch of a large, dynamic, and deeply loving family whose lives will forever reflect his wisdom, strength, humor, and unwavering devotion.

Wayne Lionel Plucheck leaves behind a legacy of sacrifice, perseverance, and love.

As his family we are sure he entered into the arms of Jesus for his final ride into eternity proclaiming his lifelong quote:

“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well-preserved body. But rather to skid in sideways, champagne in one hand, strawberries in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming WOO HOO - what a ride!”