Wayne D. Slade

Wayne David Slade, age 78, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at his home in Columbus, surrounded by his loving family. Wayne was known for his big heart, his mischievous sense of humor, and his devotion to his family and friends. He is survived by the love of his life, “the old gal,” Gloria Slade (nee Heimerl), who was his partner in all of life’s adventures, including their membership in the notorious “A-H Club.”

Born on May 12, 1946, in Columbus, Wisconsin, to the late Clyde “Leroy” Slade and Grace Slade (nee Kohls), Wayne was a proud graduate of Columbus High School, class of 1964. Shortly after graduation, he served his country in the United States Marine Corps. On January 27, 1968, he married Gloria, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and a bit of sass. This was a true love story.

Wayne was a hard worker, spending many years at Mosinee Paper in Columbus, and he also proudly served as a volunteer firefighter with the Columbus Fire Department for 15 years. He was passionate about travel, especially road trips with Gloria and their dearest friends, the Giecks. His favorite trip was their adventure to Alaska, where his love for the beauty of nature truly shined.

Wayne was also a sports enthusiast with a deep love for his Wisconsin Badgers. In fact, he was so passionate that he requested to be buried in his Badger attire and invited all those attending his services to do the same. He was a storyteller, always ready to share a tale, whether it was about his travels or his beloved sports teams.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Gloria Slade of Columbus; his two daughters, Lea (J.R.) Henrichs of Columbus and Becky (Brian) Pederson of Boerne, TX; his five grandchildren, Brandon (Zoe), James (Kara), Emily, Gavin, and Zade; and seven great-grandchildren as well as his sister Denice (Ken) Kachelski. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde “Leroy” and Grace Slade, and his daughter, Lindsey.

A visitation for Wayne will be held at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Columbus on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, from 9:30 am to 10:50 am. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 am, officiated by Pastor Tim Schwartz, with burial to follow at Hillside Cemetery. The family invites everyone to join them in celebrating Wayne’s life in their favorite Badger gear, if you do choose.

Wayne was a Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church member in Columbus.

The Koepsell-Zeidler Funeral Home in Columbus is honored to serve the Slade family during this time. Please feel free to share your condolences, and any stories of Wayne, on this website.