Wayne passed away Wednesday morning, September 27, 2017 with his two daughter by his side. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Donna and his three children Linda Huggins, Gary Smith and Susan Butler; his sister Mary Costa; seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.
He grew up farming in the family business. Following high school, Wayne served four years in the Navy, followed by an education at UC Berkley, where he majored in engineering. Going back to his roots he bought an 18 acre almond ranch which he farmed along with starting a career in 1961 with the Postal Service as a letter carrier. He worked hard and loved by his patrons who knew him as “Smitty”. In 1980, he sold 15 acres taking out most of the almond trees and planting apple trees on the remaining land. In 1987, he retired from the postal service to farm and sell his apples.
He loved life, loved people and always gave his ultimate best to everyone. Wayne will be truly missed!
A celebration of life will be held at Lakewood Funeral Home, Riverside Chapel, on Saturday, October 7, 2017 at 1:00 pm
