Douglas (“Wayne”) Day
September 22, 1959 – December 24, 2023
It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of our father, Wayne Day, on December 24, 2023 at the age of 64.
Wayne is survived by his children: Graeme (Riley) of Dryden, Stephan of Winnipeg, Simon (Brooke) of London and Emily (Cody) of Dryden; his grandchildren: Mason, Liam, Wells, Nixon, and Lila of Dryden; his siblings: Darla Rollins of Paris and Rick (Cindy) Day of Wiarton; his uncle Doug (Colleen) Tight; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Wayne was predeceased by his parents: Alice Anne (Tight) and Willis Roy Day; his good friend and brother-in-law Ken Rollins; as well as Reg Gingras.
Wayne was born to parents Alice and Willis Day. He was the youngest of three children who grew up in Milton and the beautiful Bruce Peninsula. He often spoke of Whiskey Harbour and Pike Bay which were the places he called “home”. This is where he will be laid to rest.
In the late 70s, Wayne moved to Vermilion Bay with Darla and Ken to work as a heavy equipment operator at the rock quarry and then spent 18 years working for the Municipality of Machin. Wayne later achieved his Water Treatment/Wastewater Ticket. He began working at Musselwhite Mine in 1996, before production began. He worked as a heavy equipment operator and water/wastewater treatment plant operator. Graeme will cherish the years they worked together at Musselwhite, especially their time spent drinking coffee in the mornings and having supper together each night. Wayne made many good friends over the years and spoke fondly of those he worked with. He spent several years as a site services supervisor and remained a dedicated employee for life. He worked until his health declined and he was forced to go on sick leave in 2017.
In his younger years, Wayne was active in many organizations including the Vermilion Bay Kinsmen’s Club, Dryden Freemasons, and Machin Volunteer Fire Fighters. He also proudly served as part of the Musselwhite ERT and Ontario Mine Rescue.
Wayne met Violet and they had four children together (Graeme, Stephan, Simon, and Emily) before separating. He later moved back to Wiarton, Guysborough, and eventually Goderich where he settled. Each summer, Wayne would pack all four kids into his truck and drive 20+ hours straight to get them all home. Summers were spent riding bikes, going to the beach, swimming, exploring, and travelling as a family. He even braved Canada’s Wonderland, Marine Land, and Niagara Falls with all four kids.
As his children grew up, visits were not as often but they were cherished. Many hours were spent talking on the phone and catching up. Wayne appreciated all the extra support he had from Simon (and Brooke) especially in the last years of his life. They were always there when he needed them.
Wayne was a very organized and tidy man. He was never late for anything. In fact, he was usually hours early. He was a hard worker and took pride in his career. Wayne was an avid reader and always had a book on the go. He was an early riser and could often be found at Tim Horton’s at opening time (4am) for a tea or coffee. He loved spending time at the Goderich beach and watching the sunrise. This was something he used to do with his beloved dog, Mac, who he lost in 2017. Mac was his trusted companion who he spent the rest of his life missing. We can guarantee that Mac greeted him with a slobbery kiss. We will find comfort in knowing he is resting in peace.
A special thank-you to Dan (and his late wife Shelley), Darcy, Maryanne, and Jessica for all of the kindness they showed him over the years. Wayne spoke very highly of you all.
There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. A private celebration of life will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alexandra Marine & General Hospital (AMGH) Foundation. 120 Napier Street, Goderich ON N7A 1W5. 519-524-8508. amgh.foundation@amgh.ca
