Mr. Wayne Allan Irwin Jr.

For everyone who knew Wayne Jr. (WayJ), they knew he was happy and special in so many ways. He taught us so many things that we wouldn’t know without him. Like how laughing uncontrollably was infectious and that the smallest things can make us happy. He taught us that life will always give you surprises, but you can always find a way to enjoy the differences.

WayJ loved his sister and brother (Lauren & Grant) and nieces (Avery, Addy, Annie) and while he would see them often, whenever they weren’t around, he continuously asked for them. Lauren has always been his biggest supporter and he always appreciated her loving attention.

The biggest joys in WayJ’s life were cheeseburgers, Disney World and Mr. Rogers. His daily cheeseburger run was his favorite time of the day. He would always remind us of when it was time to go by signing cheeseburger and excitedly pointing to the door.

Disney World was his “happy place”. His excitement at seeing Cinderella’s Castle while on the monorail would cause everyone to be even more excited. And Dancing with Woody was one of our favorite memories.

WayJ’s favorite show was Mister Roger’s Neighborhood. He asked for it (with a Mr. Roger’s sign) and watched it everyday for the past 30 years. We think he recognized the kindness of the show and enjoyed the simplicity of the messages. This kindness is a part of the life lessons we have learned from WayJ.

WayJ had his way of getting attention (sometimes loudly). Even though he may not have been able to tell us things directly, we knew that he loved everyone, as everyone who knew him loved him.

Wayne Jr. will be immensely missed but the power of the memories he provided will always be there to enjoy.

We love you WayJ. You are always in our hearts.

Anyone who wants to memorialize WayJ may do so with a donation to the Fred Rogers Institute, an organization designated to “helping the helpers” at www.fredrogersinstitute.org