On the early morning hours of November 17, 2020, Wayne slipped away from his earthly pain to be reunited with his parents in the Lords arms….
Wayne Calvin Baltezar was born July 2, 1964 in Butte, MT to Herman & Latishe Baltezar, the youngest of four siblings. Being the youngest and only boy, Wayne was immediately spoiled, according to his sisters and often the favorite! He attended local schools and Butte High, often proclaiming that he would always be a Bulldog! Wayne was born with natural athletic skills, good at all sports, even if “height challenged,” Wayne loved to play. He was a true Butte boy, growing up in the town he loved. Throughout his life he has been surrounded by many friends. If you were one of Wayne’s friends, it was a lifetime commitment; a true human quality he possessed.
Wayne married Yvonne Bugni with whom they had two children, Shavon and Beau. Later they divorced and Wayne found love once again, marrying Melanie Tonkin. Through that union he was blessed with a daughter, Danelle. He loved her as his own, and soon after, his “baby boy” Bryce was delivered into his life. Wayne always loved kids, so it was no surprise that he embraced the role of Dad. Although Melanie and Wayne ended up separating, they had a lifelong endearing relationship that Wayne was always thankful for.
His passion for sports soon earned him another title, Coach. This was a role that he may have enjoyed the most. His knowledge of sports and caring for kids made him a perfect fit. The kids loved Wayne too. His genuine compassion for each and every child was obvious to all. Nothing made him light up more than to hear one of his kids saying, “what’s up coach?” In a way, they truly were Wayne’s kids.
We cannot describe Wayne without mentioning the things that made him the unique character he was. He was a first recruit in the KISS Army. He loved that band. Wayne was eccentric so dressing up and acting crazy fit right into his persona. Wayne never took himself seriously. Acting weird or silly may have made him appear misunderstood by some, but all accepted him. That’s “Wayno!”
Wayne also had a love affair with the Oakland Raiders (we forgive him for that). All kidding aside, some of his fondest memories were games he attended in the “Black Hole.” Wayne looked forward to watching games with Beau on Sundays. And although much of the time spent taking turns yelling at the TV, it was enjoyed by them both.
He also had an all-encompassing relationship with Jesus later in his life. His faith and his heart were hand in hand, something he was very thankful. Through his faith in Jesus he brough his daughter Shavon to worship. This had a major impact on both of them, helping them to find peace in Jesus. Although not clear at the time, it is Wayne’s faith and his relationship with Jesus that helped support our strength in our time of loss.
Wayne had several jobs throughout his life in Butte. He worked for several years at Albertsons, CCCS, Butte Rescue Mission, as well as many others. At Wayne’s time of passing, he was working for BSW; and the people he left behind there miss him deeply. Throughout his working career, Wayne made life-long friends whom he cherished. He was a very giving person and never liked to see anyone struggle. He would give more than he had. He was a truly generous person.
Wayne was a proud brother. He loved his sisters and was sure to let everyone know just how much they meant to him. “I Love You Sis,” he’d often say. He was a one-of-a-kind brother, a loving and caring father, and a supportive uncle. He was a silly playful grandpa; Bulldog proud. Wayne was a never-ending friend who was an encouraging coach and a true man of Jesus. He loved deeply, cared passionately, and gave with a true sense of selflessness. He loved life to the fullest. Even if he isn’t here by our side, he will always be with us. We Love You!
Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Letishe Baltezar; special brother-in-law and friend, John Hettick; grandson, Trevor Hooker; and many others.
He is survived by his daughter, Shavon (Tom); son, Beau; daughter, Danelle (Chris); and son, Bryce; grandchildren, Lilly, Colby, Pookie, Faithlyn, Trystin, William, Shayleigh, and Kody; great-grandchildren, Rylynn; sisters, Linda Hettick, Debbie (Rob) Anderson, Ranie (Chris) Baltezar; along with several special nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life in honor of Wayne’s life will be held on Friday, November 20 at 2:00 PM, at the Mc Queen Club. Everyone is welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Butte Rescue Mission, 610 E Platinum St, Butte, MT 59701 or to Abundant Life Fellowship Church, 630 W Iron St, Butte, MT 59701.
Please visit below to offer a condolence or share a memory of Wayne. Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Wayne and his family.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
2:00 PM
Friday November 20, 2020
McQueen Club
3250 Hecla St
Butte, Montana 59701
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
2:00 PM
Friday November 20, 2020
McQueen Club
3250 Hecla St
Butte, Montana 59701
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Bob Pollock says
Ranie and family- I’m so sorry for your loss!
I have great memories of growing up with Wayne. He was the one you always wanted on your team during the neighborhood games, as he played with an intense zest to win! Great guy! Our thoughts are with you all.
Bob Pollock & Family
Jennifer Learned says
I am so sorry for the family of Wayne! He was a bright intensely shining light. I will never forget dancing in the kitchen at DQ to Jason Derulo with Wayne unwaveringly certain he did a perfect impersonation! He made me laugh no matter what mood I was in. He was a little bit of sunshine I’m my life and I will miss him very much!
Theresa Quintana Willard says
Rainie n family – My heart breaks for you all. We had such good times in the neighborhood. Wayne will be missed. I will never forget his funny ways when we grew up. Love and prayers to you and your family my friend.
Dan Lehti says
Rainie and family, I am so sorry to hear about Wayne. He was a great friend and one of the best people I’ve ever met. The memories of all the years in the neighborhood with Wayne and all of the other kids will never be forgotten.
Love and prayers!
janice ward says
So sorry for the loss of your precious brother! May he rest in peace! Praying for all of you.
Renee says
Rainie and family, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Thinking of you. May your brother rest in peace. Blessings Renée
Dana says
Shavon, Beau, and all the Family. May Wayne’s memories comfort you and help you through this very difficult time. All my Love and Prayers
Dana
Julie Carlson says
Sending hugs and prayers to all of you! So very sorry for your loss! Hearts are broken but know he is watching over all of you since God called him home! Love you big much Shavon and Beau and the rest of your family! Fly high Wayne!!!!
Steve Stanich says
Thoughts & Prayers to the entire family.
Wayne will be truly missed.
Dave Boyd says
May Wayne rest in peace. My thoughts anp prayers are will you all!
Bea (Fontaine) Brinster says
My friend, thank you for your presence in my recovery. You made a difference. You will be so dearly missed and so fondly remembered. Condolences to his family and friends. Peace find you and comfort you.
Shaun Sitton says
Sending love and prayers to your family. You will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with you and your family through this difficult time. May you Rest In Peace.
Mick says
Rest In Peace my friend, it was a pleasure getting to know you
Arch Ecker says
I think of Wayne every time the Raiders play, especially when they win! He was a good and loyal friend for many years. My best wishes to his extended family at this horrible time.
Dennis Fellows says
I’m so sorry for your loss. The first time I met Wayne, was little league baseball, always a fun guy to be around.
Ryan McCarthy says
I worked with Wayne at Albertsons in the 90’s. He always would make me laugh and we use to argue about music all the time. I was into the metal and grunge and as you know there was only one band in Wayne’s mind…KISS. I made cassette tapes of what I was lisiting to and gave them to him. A couple days later he would return them with KISS recorded over it. Every time I see, think or hear KISS I have always thought of Wayne! I’m sure he is lisiting to them now. Rest in Peace my friend!
Lacey says
May he rest in peace knowing how loved and cherished he was. He always had a hug and a smile ready for everyone. He managed to always make me smile laugh. He had a special way about him. My condolences to all of his family. Wayne I’m sure going to miss you.
Scott Paffhausen says
Ranie and the entire Baltezar family…My wife Cindy and I would like to pass on our condolences to you all. We are very sorry about the loss of my friend Wayne. I always enjoyed being around Wayne…he was always a straight shooter…he’ll truly be missed! Rest in peace my friend. Your entire family is in our daily thoughts and prayers. We’ll always be teammates my brother…BULLDOGS FOREVER! Much love to you all.
Marla Dotson Semsak says
Ranie & family, sorry to hear of Wayne’s passing. Always had fun in the old neighborhood. Kick the can, bike riding, playing at the park. Never saw Wayne without a smile on his face! My condolences to all of you.
Dee says
So sorry for ur loss. May he Rest In Peace. Prayers to his children and sisters Linda Debbie & Rainey. My thoughts r with u. 🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻
Dave Gibson says
Linda, Debbie, Raine, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your little brother Wayne. I never got to know him as an adult but I have fond memories of giving him snowmobile rides in front of your house by Hebgen Park . I think he was about 5. When I saw this picture I saw you’re Dad who was a second father to me. Please accept my family’s heart felt condolences and prayers. God bless you all.
Debbie Pierce says
My thoughts & prayers to the entire family.
Wayne will be truly missed.
Shauna Montoya says
My condolences to Wayne’s family. I knew Wayne from East Jr High and Butte High. Although it has been many years since then, I remember Wayne as inclusive and kind with a great sence of humor and laugh. Through all those weekend social gatherings at bonfires and house parties Wayne would always seek me out to chat me up. Try to convince me that i would make a great “jock” and i should join sports. He was a friend. He will be missed
Mike Foley says
From Mike Foley…..wayne will be missed deeply. He was a great person and coach. He was involved for one reason and one only…..the kids. We loved Wayne at East.
Rosena Konecny says
Linda, Debbie, and Raine: I am so sorry for you loss. Wayne was so much younger that I really never got to know him personally. I do remember him from Albertsons – he was always so kind to my Mom and Dad when they went shopping. He always brightened their day. This has brought back so many memories of your family and growing up in the neighborhood. Heaven has another angel. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Kim Canfield Bailey says
I have known Wayne since the 5th grade. He was always so nice and everyone thought the world if him. I lost contact with him for years, but ran into him at a dance where we both had clients attending. Finding out that Wayne and I worked together just in different towns and that he was now a Christian was a happy moment for me. I am so glad we had that visit. I didn’t know it would be our last one on this earth. We shall visit again! Praying for his family and friends for comfort and understanding in this difficult time.
Kari Glasoe (Mufich) says
Thoughts and prayers to the entire family. So sorry for your loss.
RIP Wayne!!
Rhonda Quandt says
My condolences to Wayne’s family. I knew Wayne from East Jr High, Butte High and worked with him for many years at Albertsons until I was transferred to Spokane. Wayne was goofy, fun, and always had a smile and positive attitude when coming to work. He always made one feel appreciated. Many great memories shared! You will be missed by many Wayne!
“I lift my eyes to the hills – where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heavens and earth”. PSALM 12:1-2
I am praying God will comfort Wayne’s family with beautiful memories of him: give everyone hope and peace as one looks forward to one day praising Jesus together forever – with sympathy and prayers.
Shavon Baltezar says
Hi I’m Wayne daughter I just want to thank everyone for the nice words and support! Please pray for us always! This is hard but Jesus will carry us through and has big plans for our family! As broken as I am I still give all glory to god! My daddy so happy with Jesus ! Thanks daddy for showing me Jesus ! The best gift u could ever gave me! Love u daddy!
Cathy West says
My condolences to Wayne’s family. I am so sad for your loss. I have such fun memories of Wayne all the way back to grade school. He was a great guy and he will be missed by all of us. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Jody Daughenbaugh says
Thoughts and prayers to the family! We lost a good man and gained a angel!!! Sincere condolences.
Kathy Dunks says
So very sorry for your loss.
LaDonna says
I haven’t seen Wayne for a couple years, but everytime I saw him before that, he always gave me a big hug…. I’ll always cherish our chats…. and his Superman tattoo…. rest in peace, Superman 🙏
John Willard says
Wayne was kind , always had time for a chat . Not everyone does but Wayne did . Rest In Peace my brother in recovery . Sincer condolences to all his friends and family . I’ll miss running in to him and having a visit .
Jan Rask says
With heartfelt sympathy to Wayne’s family. What a kind and loving soul Wayne possessed. Always very friendly and happy to visit with you! My greatest memory was an evening at Brews Billiards I ran into him. We danced together the whole entire evening. It was a really fun time. Ranie and Debbie I’m really thinking of you I haven’t seen you in a very long time and pray life is good and you are well! My love of course to all of your family! Please let me know if I can do anything for you! With love! 💕💕💕💕💕💕💕
Tom Hall says
My heart just hurts. Wayne was a lifelong friend of mine and we were truly Brothers. We spent our entire childhood together. He will truly be missed. Such a kind heart. Blessings to the family. May he Rest In Peace!!
Bob Kocher says
I will never have another friend like Wayne, I didn’t just loose a friend but a great brother in Christ. rest in peace brother, I will miss you every day. Your friend Bob, I love you man