Wade J. Greenawalt, age 80, died Thursday, Oct. 30, in Wayland.
Wade was a graduate of Wayland Union Schools. He later went on to attend Kalamazoo Valley Community College and Grand Valley State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in philosophy. Wade also served his country in the United States Navy.
Though Wade worked and managed the family business, Wayland Cleaners, for a time, he would later discover his real passion: bowling. His passion led to a 20+ year career working at Airport Lanes in Wayland. He was a member of the Wayland United Methodist Church, Lions Club, Mensa, and Masonic Lodge. He was also an avid reader (especially science fiction and philosophy) and enjoyed writing poetry, tinkering with anything mechanical, camping and cribbage.
Wade is survived by his siblings, Lee Greenawalt, Rex (Gloria) Greenawalt, and Roxie Muczynski. He was preceded in death by his son, Brian; parents Frederick and Effie Greenawalt; sisters-in-law Carmen and Patty; brother-in-law, Dennis Muczynski; and special friend and companion, Sue Logan.
Per his wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at Wayland United Methodist Church, 200 Church St., with visitation one hour prior to the service.
In memory of Wade and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wayland United Methodist Church.
Wade was a friend. I visited him in Wayland and brought him his favorite candy, Neco Wafers. I also used to talk with him at KVCC. He was very intelligent. His brother, Rex, is a Vietnam Vet with two Purple Hearts. Roxie should be in the Wayland School Hall of Fame. She was Miss Wayland, Miss Allegan County and a runner up in the Miss Michigan contest, a member of the Wayland Board of Education and Director of the Wayland Food Bank. She has given back to this community her whole life. His parents were leaders in the community. Wade will be missed.