Wayne Wilson (Bolivar)'s Obituary
Wilburn Wayne Wilson, 83, of Bolivar, MO passed away Thursday, February 16, 2017 at Parkview Health Facility in Bolivar, MO.
Wayne was born June 9, 1933 in Springfield, MO to Pete and Beulah Neill Wilson. He attended Southwest Missouri State on a golf scholarship, where he served in the very first ROTC and a member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity. Upon graduation, he served his nation proudly in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. While on leave during his time in the service, he came home to marry his best friend, Rowena Young. He came home on a Sunday evening, and the two married the next day. Over the next 60 years, the two would share in many adventures together.
Wayne and Rowena spent most of their life together in Bolivar, where Wayne worked as an MFA/Shelter insurance agent. While working in the company, Wayne served as both District and State Sales Manager. He was honored to be able to give his time and skill to his community and retired in 1998 after 38 years of service.
Throughout his life, Wayne sought ways to serve and give back to his family, his church, and his community. He served as a founding member of CMH, and was the only remaining founder who continued to hold his seat on the Board of Directors. His work and dedication serving in this position was the pride and joy of his career. He was also a founding member of Silo Ridge, and planned his retirement to begin the day the course opened. A faithful Rotarian, he joined the club when he moved to Bolivar in 1973 and served as the club President during the 1990-1991 term. He also gave his time to his church, serving on any committee that called.
Even in personal hobbies, Wayne was often called upon as a leader. When they arrived in Bolivar from Oklahoma, the family saw that there was no active equine 4-H chapter. In typical fashion, the Wilson's got to work filling the need. They put an ad in the paper to find out what the interest would be in the POCOMO Wranglers 4-H club, and over 100 families responded.
Wayne's life was meaningful and impactful for both his family and his community. His service has provided opportunities that will stand the test of time, and his impact will not soon be forgotten.
Wayne is preceded in death by his Parents, Pete and Beulah Wilson, as well as two brothers, Ezra Wilson and Alvin Wilson.
He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Rowena Wilson of Bolivar, MO, his daughter; Lisa Lehman and husband Craig of Bolivar, MO. He is also survived by his granddaughters, Lindsey Lehman and Leah Lehman, as well as his brother, Jim Wilson of Jackson, TN. Along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Funeral Services for Wayne Wilson will be held Monday, February 20, 2017 at 1 PM at Butler Funeral Home in Bolivar, MO. Visitation will be held 1:00 -3:00 PM Sunday, February 19, 2017 at Butler Funeral Home in Bolivar, MO. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Rotary International or CMH Hospice.
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