Wayne Ekstrom

WAYNE EKSTROM, age 73, of Elburn, passed away at his home, surrounded by the love and prayers of his family, Friday morning, August 22, 2014. He was born August 10, 1941, in Geneva, IL, the son of Carl and Hazel (Johnson) Ekstrom. Wayne grew up on the family farm in Wasco where his physical education was born. His academic education came from local schools and eventually St. Charles High School where he was involved in the FFA. Wayne was a hard worker who, after helping his family work on the farm, found his niche in the blacksmith shop as a welder. Wayne worked at Wasco Blacksmith for over thirty years. After the shop was sold, Wayne found work for a few years at Glenwood School For Boys as a maintenance man whre he remained until his retirement. Wayne was not one for hobbies, but his daily regiment always included a trip to the coffee shop in his infamous red pick-up truck. Although he never married, his love for his community and common man was always worn on his sleeve. His familiar smile and gentle demeanor with be missed by all those who knew and loved him. He is survived by two siblings: Darlene (Russell) Bohlin and Carl Ekstrom;several nieces and nephews and a community of friends. He is preceded in death by his parents. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m., Tuesday, August 26, 2014, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL. A funeral service to celebrate his life will be at 10:30 a.m., with a visitation from 9:30-10:15 a.m., at Grace Lutheran Church, 5N600 Hanson Rd., Lily Lake, IL. Rev. Ernst Rex, pastor of the church, will officiate and interment will follow at Whitney Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Wayne’s name to benefit his favorite charities. Checks may be made to the "Wayne Ekstrom Memorial" and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on the web at www.conleycare.com.

5N600 Hanson Rd., Lily Lake, IL

Campton Hills