Wayne Eugene McDannald, son of Burrel Everett and Birdie Mayme (Bower) McDannald, was born on December 14, 1936, in Camargo, Oklahoma, and passed from this life on January 10, 2025, in Joplin, Missouri, at the age of 88. Wayne spent his early years on the family farm in Dewey County alongside his sister, Correne. He began his formal education in the Camargo Public Schools before moving with his family to Wilder, Idaho, in 1946. There, he attended school in Homedale, Idaho, and graduated with the Class of 1954.

Wayne served in the National Guard from 1953 to 1956 and then enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving from 1956 to 1960. His commitment to service continued with a distinguished career in the Navy Reserves from 1969 to 1996. From 1961 to 1989, Wayne worked at the Nevada Test Site in Mercury, Nevada, where he received numerous honors for his dedication and contributions. He was also an active member of the Rotary Club, where he was recognized for his service and leadership.

On March 14, 1983, Wayne married Joan Raczka in the Lutheran Church in Las Vegas, Nevada. Together, they built a life filled with adventure, travel, and shared passions. In 1995, Wayne and Joan purchased land near Gage, Oklahoma, where he enjoyed the outdoors, caring for his cattle, assisting Joan with her stained glass creations, and embarking on travels across Europe, Mexico, the Caribbean, Alaska, England, Scotland, and Wales. In recent years, they relocated to Joplin, Missouri, to be closer to family.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Burrel and Birdie McDannald; his son, Roy; his brother-in-law, David Marble; and other loved ones. He is survived by his beloved wife, Joan; his sons, Rodd McDannald and his wife, Donna, and Robert McDannald and his wife, Deborah; his grandchildren, Dylan McDannald, Lacey McDannald-Gillis, Cody McDannald, Tara McDannald, Matthew McDannald, and Andrew McDannald; his sister, Correne Marble; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Wayne will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his service to his country, and his adventurous spirit. His legacy of love, hard work, and exploration will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.