Wayne T. Stehlin

AKWESASNE - Wayne T. Stehlin, 72, unexpectedly passed away at his home on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

Born on January 31, 1954, in Farmingdale, Long Island, he was the son of the late Louis E. and the late Mary Ella (Francis) Stehlin. He attended schools in Farmingdale, Cornwall Island and St. Lawrence College Trade School for Masonry, where he received his Bricklayer Certification.

A member of St. Regis Catholic Church and Local 7 – International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers. Wayne was affectionately known as "The Wanderer." His love for singing was boundless. A talented musician, who formerly played for the "Young Mohawks" performed locally and travelled out of state he also performed at the state fair where he opened up for Conway Twitty. He enjoyed entertaining through band performances and karaoke in his later years, coaching his sons to become better singers and entertainers themselves. He cherished the time spent at the Elks and Moose Lodges, as well as the Rusty Wheel, where he engaged with the audience. He took pride in tending to his land. He loved his sons, family and his dog, FeFe and many others.

He is survived by his sons, Dwayne (Thierry Laurion) Lazore of Akwesasne; Kane (Kayla Nelson) Montour of Akwesasne; chosen son Michael (Tewasontahawitha Porter) Fowler of Las Vegas; John Paul Fowler of Massena; and Tim (Kahs Nelson) Cree of Kanesatake; and his chosen grandchildren include Drayden "Gum Gum Stacy Montour, Roweriio Micah, Iakohkatste Katana, Kaneratokon Manny, Kaneratison Mateo, Avery, Grayson, Ellie, John Paul, Jr., and his past companion, Mary Nicholas.

Wayne is also survived by his siblings, Gary (Estrelita) Stehlin of Akwesasne; Donna Stehlin of Cornwall; Dale Stehlin of Akwesasne; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Louis and Mary Ella, Wayne was predeceased by his sister Deborah Benedict; nephews Jacob L. Stehlin and Chase Seymour Kahionhatakie; and niece Courtney Seymour Iohserakohe.

Friends may visit at Akwesasne Homemakers starting Tuesday, February 24th at 10am and Wednesday 25th, until 9 am Thursday, when a memorial mass will be held at St. Regis Catholic Church at 10am, with Father Jerome Pastores officiating.

Arrangements are under the care of Donaldson Funeral Home, where friends and family are encouraged to share memories and condolences online at www.donaldsonfh.com.