Wayne Leroy Peterson

Wayne Leroy Peterson never met a story he didn’t want to tell—or retell. A consummate storyteller with a sharp wit, a big heart, and a deep faith in Christ, Wayne passed away on August 11, 2025, in Henderson, Nevada, at the age of 82.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, to Kenneth and Loretta Peterson, Wayne spent his childhood enjoying family vacations in Wisconsin with his parents and sister, Sheryl, who preceded him in death. Though he once dreamed of becoming a Forest Ranger, his life’s calling turned out to be teaching. After earning his Master’s in Education, Wayne became a high school teacher, where he shaped countless lives and was honored as Teacher of the Year in 1997. His students remembered him as much for his humor and stories as for his lessons.

Wayne’s greatest pride was his family. On March 24, 1973, he married the love of his life, Claudette, and together they raised two sons, Kevin and aQui. He later welcomed his lovely daughters-in-law, Kiri and Taliza, into the family. He cherished his role as “Grandpa Wayne” to Ryo, Zendai, Kotei, Kyra, and Kainos, who were frequent (and sometimes captive) audiences to his tales.

Wayne lived a life of devotion—to God, to his family, and to his calling as a teacher. He is survived by Claudette, his children, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren

A funeral mass will be at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church 2300 Sunridge Heights Parkway, Henderson, Nevada 89052.