Wayne Coleman

Wayne Vernon Coleman, age 73, of Bejou, MN, died Monday, October 27, 2014, at the University of Minnesota Medical Center in Minneapolis, MN. Wayne Vernon Coleman, son of Charles and Annie (Morgan) Coleman, was born on February 8, 1941, in White Earth, MN. As just an infant, both of his parents died and Wayne “lovingly known as Tonto” spent his early years in the Pine Point and Naytahwaush, MN, areas. He attended school in Pipestone, MN, and later returned to a foster home in Mahnomen and went to Mahnomen High School. As a teenager, Wayne was an exceptional athlete, active in both football and wrestling. He was also a member of the Beaulieu Muskrats scrub basketball team. Following his high school graduation, Wayne attended Haskell Technical College where he studied auto mechanics. In 1962 he entered the United States Navy proudly serving his country. Following his honorable discharge, Wayne returned to the Mahnomen area and met the love of his life, Susie Olson and they would spend 49 wonderful years together. They spent most of their married life in Minneapolis, where Wayne was employed with the City of Minneapolis Water Department. He retired after 30 years of service and shortly thereafter moved back to Northern Minnesota. Wayne and Susie purchased the “Sather” farm near Bejou and have made a home there since. Wayne had struggled with illness for several years but was not afraid to die. He longed to see his departed family and his beloved childhood dog, Shep. He peacefully passed away on October 27, due to complications following a kidney transplant. Wayne was an avid sports fan who was often involved in several games at the same time. He loved to watch the Minnesota Vikings, Twins, and the Gopher football and basketball teams. Of course, he followed the Mahnomen Indians sporting events too. He had a wonderful sense of humor and was usually teasing family and friends. He could take a joke as well as he could tell them and conversations always ended in laughter. Wayne enjoyed playing Bingo and going to the casino when he was able. He was very proud of the fact he was 33 years sober! Wayne had a soft spot for animals and he would often bring in a stray to give it a warm home. He loved his dogs, Lady and Gilmore, but had an especially close bond with his 6 lb. therapy dog, Buddy. In addition to his furry friends, Wayne cherished all of his family and friends. He treasured his nieces and nephews and loved being called Uncle by everyone, relation or not. He touched the hearts of many and will never be forgotten. He is survived by his wife, Susie of Bejou; one sister, Evelyn Staples of Minneapolis; two brothers: Kenny Coleman and Ron (Thelma) Coleman all of Mahnomen; two brothers-in-law: David (Elizabeth) Olson of Phoenix, AZ and Ernie (Josie) Miller of Hendrum, MN; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2014, at 2 p.m. at Samuel Memorial Episcopal Church in Naytahwaush, MN. Visitation will be held on Friday, October 31, 2014, from 4-7 p.m., at the church Interment will be held in Samuel Memorial Episcopal Cemetery, Naytahwaush.

Wayne Coleman

February 8, 1941 - October 27, 2014