Wayne C. DeBroske Obituary
Cremation has taken place. A gathering of family and friends will be held on Thursday, October 17, 2024, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Joldersma and Klein Funeral Home. A private burial service will take place at Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to The Kalamazoo Air Zoo, or American Heart Association, in c/o the funeral home.
Wayne C. DeBroske, age 75, of Portage, passed away at home on September 29, 2024. He was born on November 16, 1948, to Joseph and Grace (Kalin) DeBroske in Detroit, MI and grew up in St. Clair Shores, MI.
Upon graduation Wayne served in the U.S. Navy. Following his service, he attended college and worked for over 35 years in sales and management for various plastics companies. After retirement, he enjoyed working as a volunteer in the Restoration Department and docent at the Kalamazoo Air Zoo where he became friends with many. In 2021 he joined the Talons Out Honor Flight to Washington D.C., to honor his service in the Vietnam War. It was such a touching moment that he shared with his daughter Jennifer who joined him.
Wayne was united in marriage to Karen on April 3, 2001, who survives. Also surviving are his children, Erica (Derek) Groendyk, Jennifer DeBroske-Lee (Brian Lee); stepchildren Daryl Haner, Bryan (Hillary) Haner; and Nicole Hastings. Grandchildren Levi and Hannah Groendyk, Jacqueline Lee; step-grandchildren Lukas and Ella Haner; sister Rene Miaullo. He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister Jacqueline Kallen.
Wayne was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. As a sports fan he looked forward to watching soccer and baseball games of his kids and grandkids. He loved hockey, golf, WMU games, and especially U of M football.
He will be missed by many who knew and loved him.
