Wayne E Draper

Wayne E Draper

“Don’t rush me, I’m waiting till the last minute.” Wayne took the time to enjoy life’s great treasures: he loved the smell of a mountain hike, to feel the waters of kayaking, and the sounds of classical music. He knew the strongest part of the body was the ear: friends and family knew him as a powerful listener.rnHe graduated from St. Joseph’s Polish High School and went on to serve his nation in the army. His uncle Sam would return the favor, providing a Masters in music through the GI Bill. He’d pass his love of music on to the next generation as a music teacher in Wenonah and Woodbury Heights. Learning for him never stopped: his television was perpetually tuned to the History and Learning Channels. His polish roots were never forgotten: he loved pierogis, chrusciki, and kielbasa. rnHe wore both the hat of a father and that of a friend with his children: Mark (Caryn), Lisa Reinmuth, and Rebecca. He forged a special relationship with granddaughter, Rhianna Reinmuth: she administered regular treatments of chocolate milkshakes. He is survived by his brother, Jerome and sister, Jacqeline. rnCome celebrate 70 great years Friday 6-8 p.m. at Daley Life Celebration Studio, Swedesboro. Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday 10 a.m. at St. Margaret’s Church, 845 3rd street, Woodbury Heights. Tell a great story about Wayne at lifecelebrationstudio.com.rn

4 Comments

  1. Jim Sanville says:

    I have not been in touch with Wayne since maybe the early 80’s but probably the 70’s. Both of us were members of the Outdoor Club of South Jersey. My rememborng him after all these years is testimony to the positive thoughts he has left with me. We went X C skiing at Frost Valley in the Catskils and (I think) winter camping in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. My memories of Wayne were of an easy going Gentleman. Always fun to be around. Unfortunately I have no specificites that I can share. My sincere sympathies are with you.

  2. Skip Hults says:

    Wayne served Newcomb on our School Board from 2005 until 2009. While Wayne was quiet, yet when he spoke you knew it was going to be rich and insightful. We at Newcomb Central School District lost a good friend and an advocate for kids! We will truly miss him. To Rebecca, our student and friend, we hurt for you and with you! To the family, we are sorry for your loss!

  3. Mary Dillon-Bush says:

    Dear Family,rnrnI am sorry to hear of Waynes passing. He will be missed in our quiet little town of Newcomb. Rebecca, (your words, not long ago, encouraged me)… remember that your Dad is now at peace and will forever live in your heart. rnrnWith love,rnrnMrs. Bush

  4. Leticia Dillon says:

    I worked for Wayne taking his dog out each day for a walk and feeding him his special foods and treats Wayne had set out for him. Wayne would always leave on classical music playing for him. “You can tell a mans soul by the way he treats his dog” I love this qoute and it was a pleasure to know Wayne.