Wayne E. Gifford, 85, of Rensselaer, passed away Friday night, Oct. 24, 2014 at George Ade Memorial Health Care Center in Brook. He was born in Rensselaer on Aug. 25, 1929, son of the late Gerald and Lora (George) Gifford. He was a lifetime area resident.

Wayne graduated from Rensselaer High School in 1948. He served in the U.S. Army from 1951-1952 during the Korean War. On July 3, 1954, in Dayton, IN, he married his wife of 51 years, Barbara (McAleer) Gifford. She preceded him in death on Dec. 30, 2005. Wayne worked for Rensselaer Monuments, Inc., retiring in 1992. He had also previously worked for Jackson Monuments and Northway Products. He attended the Church of the Nazarene and he enjoyed traveling and camping.

Wayne is survived by two sons: Robert (Wanda) Gifford and Philip (Bonnie) Gifford, both of Rensselaer; three grandchildren: Matthew (Sarah) Gifford of Rensselaer, Adam Gifford (fiancé: Mary Lockard) of Otterbein, and Elizabeth Gifford of Rensselaer; two brothers: David Gifford of State College, PA and Lawrence (Muriel) Gifford of DeMotte; and one sister, Loretta Padgitt of Rensselaer.

He was preceded in death by: his parents; his wife, Barbara; a sister, Nona Swiss; and a brother, Darold Gifford.

Per Wayne’s wishes, cremation will take place and a graveside service will be held on Friday, Oct. 31, 2014 at Memory Gardens Cemetery with Pastor Lisa Ulrich officiating. Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer is assisting the family. Share memories and condolences online at www.SteinkeFuneralHome.com.