Robert "Wayne" Riddell

Robert Wayne Riddell, 90, of Miamisburg, Ohio, passed on to his eternal home on November 21, 2025. Born on December 5, 1934, in the residence of his paternal grandparents on Lower Springboro Road in Franklin, Ohio, Wayne was a man of kind-hearted, patient, and compassionate nature. He was devoted and faithful throughout his life.

Wayne was a proud member of the Franklin High School Class of 1952 and furthered his education at Miami University - Middletown. His career spanned an impressive 57 and a half years at Dayton Power & Light. He served his country with distinction as an E5 Specialist in the Army Security Agency from 1957 to 1960, stationed at Tempelhof Air Force Base in Berlin, Germany, where his clever nature earned him the nickname “Fox”.

Wayne shared a loving marriage of 64 years with his wife, Carolyn (Correll) Riddell. He was a devoted father to his daughter, Susan Kawecki, and her husband Martin Kawecki. His legacy continues through his grandchildren who affectionately called him “Ga”, Luke Matthews and his wife Sydney Matthews, Janson Matthews, Logan Kawecki, and Hannah Kawecki, as well as his great-granddaughters, Nora Matthews and Wren Matthews. He is also survived by his brother, Gary Riddell, and his wife Donna Riddell, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and loved ones.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Helen (Lainhart) Riddell.

In his personal life, Wayne enjoyed walking, traveling, fishing, playing ping pong, bowling, and basketball. He spent several years traveling across multiple states with Miss American Coed Pageants, managing novelty sales and later judging competitions. His love for Jesus and sharing God's love was evident through his active involvement in Bible study and scriptures. He was a longtime Deacon and Chairman of Deacons at First Baptist Miamisburg and taught Sunday School for 45 years.

Wayne was known for his unofficial role as the family photographer and his quiet strength. Though reserved, when he spoke, people listened. He was a man of powerful presence, strong hands, and a great work ethic, dearly loving his family. His greatest concern was always the welfare of his beloved wife.

The family expresses gratitude to The Phoenix at James Creek in Suwanee, Georgia, where Wayne regained strength and was able to return home to Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Wayne's memory to the Alzheimer's Association - Miami Valley Chapter, 6 North Main Street, Suite #130, Dayton, OH 45402 or at https://www.alz.org/dayton

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 12:00 – 2:00 PM on Friday, December 5, 2025, at Gebhart-Schmidt-Parramore Funeral Home, 508 E. Linden Ave. Miamisburg, Ohio 45342. Service immediately following at 2:00 PM at the funeral home officiated by Pastor Steve Spurgin. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.gebhartschmidtparramore.com