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Wayne Kyder Obituary
Mr. Kyder was a U.S. Army medical soldier in Korea during the Vietnam War, noted for extraordinary courage while airlifting and transporting fallen soldiers.
He married Sarah Suderley Meneely in 1974; and she survives him. Other survivors are his brother David Kyder (Nancy) of North Haven; sister Sharon Hunt (John) of North Guilford; and three nephews, Jacob Hunt, Adam Hunt and Nathan Kyder.
In 1990, he applied his expertise aboard ships to start CT Compass Service, adjusting compasses used for navigation. His dedication and craftsmanship earned him respect in the maritime community, particularly the U.S. Coast Guard.
Along the way, Mr. Kyder built two boats, a ketch and trimaran, from scratch, a testimonial to his skill and determination. His boat Lotus was featured in several newspapers when he was asked to join a flotilla from Middletown to Old Saybrook. He also loved flying and worked on an airplane engine at his garage on Grassy Hill Road.
Wayne faced Parkinson's Disease with the same resilience that he brought to his military service and professional endeavors. He leaves behind a legacy of bravery, hard work and love that will be honored and remembered by all who knew him.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 31, at the Old Lyme First Congregational Church. Donations in his memory can be sent to Parkinson's Disease research or Hospice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Wayne Kyder
Paul & Chris
May 28, 2025
Wayne will be missed!
He was a great neighbor for over 40 years, friend and man.
Willing to help when needed and always positive.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Sarah, also a true friend.
Paul & Chris
Lynn Stout Paparella
May 24, 2025
Sarah, sending my sincere and deepest condolences on the loss of your dear husband, Wayne. I remember him as a kind and gentle man who was devoted to you. My heart aches for you.
May his memory be a blessing.
John McCreary
May 21, 2025
Sarah, I am very sorry for your loss. Wayne and I were stationed together at the 377th Medical Air Ambulance facility in Korea and developed good friendship. He was such an awesome individual and for a time after our discharge, maintained contact. I drove out from the West coast to visit you both decades ago. Wayne made an impact in my life and has always been in my memories.
Sharon Hunt
May 18, 2025
Wayne will always be alive in my memory. He was selfless, loving, with a truly caring and giving soul. Rest in peace, my brother, you will always be alive in our hearts.
Rae Chamberlain
May 18, 2025
It´s been so many years now but I remember him well from his shipwright days. His kind heart sticks with me most. I´m terribly sorry for the loss of another talented, gentle soul.
Diane Stevens
May 18, 2025
Sarah so sorry for your loss Wayne was such a nice man. Hugs to you. Diane
Dave Fairman
May 18, 2025
Rest in Peace
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