Wayne E. Wiedenhoeft, 93, departed this world on January 14, 2026, in Rockford, Illinois, merely two weeks after the passing of his beloved wife, Joy. Born on February 7, 1932, in the tranquil town of Whitewater, Wisconsin, son to Bernard and Minnie (Wagner) Wiedenhoeft. Wayne’s journey began when he enlisted in the United States Air Force, dedicating over 20 years of his life to service from 1952 through 1972. In that time he would marry Joy Steig on September 28, 1957. His military career took him and his family across the United States and abroad, allowing them to experience life in Germany and England. This foundation of service defined Wayne, shaping his character and guiding the way he approached life- with quiet dignity. Upon his honorable discharge, they embarked on their final home, Rockford, Illinois in 1972. Once he hung up his military uniform, he committed to a second career in manufacturing; working for Barber-Colman Co. from 1972 to 1981 before moving to Ingersoll, where he continued work until retiring in 1992. When the Wiedenhoeft's moved to Rockford, they found their home parish at Our Saviors Lutheran Church. Pretty quickly Joy became very active in the church, and although a quiet man, Wayne found joy in the company of those at the church; he also took pride in being an usher and caretaker of the building, ready to step in whenever and wherever needed. Wayne also enjoyed the simplicities of life; being home reading the newspaper, camaraderie amongst fellow veterans at the American Legion, and as a proud Wisconsin native and Green Bay Packers fan, he held a special fondness for Lambeau Field. Wayne also shared an extraordinary commitment to his devoted wife, Joy. After meeting her at a pub and dancing the night away, moving all the way across the great North Atlantic and back, and growing old together, the family takes great solace in the fact that Wayne was not apart very long from the partner and companion he cherished above all.

He is survived by their children Bruce and Dawn (Andy) Friedl; grandchildren Christopher and Casey Wiedenhoeft, as well as Hans (Kayle Schoville) and Anna Friedl; brother, Keith (Lois) Wiedenhoeft and several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his beloved Joy, his parents Bernard and Minnie, and his older brother Wilber (Esther) Wiedenhoeft.

Cremation rites were accorded to Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel. A private family service will take place for both Joy and Wayne. Please consider memorials to be made to Our Saviors Lutheran Church, 3301 Corbridge Lane, Rockford, Illinois 61107. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com