WAYNE F. STRANGE

1938 - 2025

Wayne F. Strange, 87, of Mainesburg, passed away on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at UPMC Williamsport Hospital. He was born on June 6, 1938, in Blossburg, a son of Marcus and Myrtle (Rice) Strange. Wayne was the husband of R. "Elaine" Strange. They celebrated 69 years of marriage that was filled with cherished times spent together with family, friends and business associates.
Wayne left a legacy of love and strong values for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to follow. He was a veteran of the National Guard. Throughout his life, Wayne had been a rancher, horse trainer, rodeo rider, logger, saw miller and baseball bat manufacturer. As a land developer, Wayne oversaw the building of Gem Lake, Sugar Branch Lake, and Ridgebury Lake Recreation area. He was also co-owner of Strange and Strange Lumber. He started Buildings Inc. in 1972. His son, Steve, took over Buildings Inc. in 2000. After retiring, Wayne continued helping when needed as advisor, CDL driver, wide load driver, and N.Y. State flagger.
Wayne and Elaine had many hobbies and pastimes they enjoyed together. He was a member of the State Road Baptist Church from the age of seven. He and Elaine belonged to the Grand Paraders Square Dance Club in Troy and the Southern Tier Wheelers Square Dance Camping Club. They belonged to Florida Flywheeler Engine Club for 25 years where Wayne ran the sawmill. In recent years Wayne authored a book telling of his life and accomplishments. Wayne loved to travel, especially in their motor home. He enjoyed hunting, bowling, playing cards and woodworking.
Wayne's family now celebrate his life through the many memories of all he accomplished and enjoyed in life.
Wayne is survived by his wife; son, Steve (Karen) Strange of Mansfield; daughters, Mary (Ray) DeWalt and Diane (Paul) McNett, all of Mansfield; nine grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren; and two special nieces, Mary Ann (Doug) Besley of Elkland and Melinda Fekety of Winter Haven, Fla
He was preceded in death by a son, Tom Strange in 1982; great-grandson, Austin Clark; brother, Arthur Strange; half brothers and sisters, Bing, Rusty, Bob, Vivian and Barbara.
Friends and family are invited to call from 1 to 3 p.m. on Sunday, December 7 at Buckheit Funeral Chapel and Crematory, Inc., 673 S. Main St., Mansfield. A funeral service will immediately follow at 3 p.m. with pastor Randy Burton officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to State Road Baptist Church, 1600 Old State Road, Mainesburg, PA 16932 or State Road Church Cemetery Association, in care of Cliff Cross at 97 Sullivan View, Covington PA 16917. www.buckheitfcandcrematory.com