Wayne T. Bryant

May 15, 1948 - Jan. 9, 2016

REISTERSTOWN, MD - Wayne Thomas Bryant, 66, loving father, loyal friend to many, and devoted husband for thirty-three years, passed away Saturday, January 9th, 2016.

Wayne was a South Bend and Riley High School class of 1966 alumni. Wayne met the love of his life and wife of thirty-three years, Pamela Delmage, when he was 8 and she was 7 on Shavehead Lake in 1957. Their love story started at the end of a pier but spanned nearly 60 years crossing the country 4 times. They met early in life and were best friends; however, they didn't marry until their early thirties. Wayne and Pam remained together until his passing.

On Shavehead Lake he was very active in the community and vigorously fought for the things he believed in: clean water reservation, animal habitats, and health of the lake and its surrounding residents. The man never met a plastic bottle he didn't ensure was recycled. Many of his fondest memories were at Shavehead Lake on the water spending time with his family and friends enjoying the simplicity of nature and friendship.

Wayne had many hobbies including cooking, photography and swing/oldies dancing at the Brookdale Club. He later served as both the President of the Shavehead Lake Association and the Elkhart Rifle & Pistol Club for many years. In addition, managed Dave's Marathon for 14 years, later working for 11 years at Monaco Motor Coach.

Wayne was always prepared for anything. His signature daily regimen was to ensure he took his Gerber pocketknife, watch, wedding ring, and crucifix necklace wherever he went. He was a true gentleman in every sense of the word. There are countless stories of him taking care of others, by always ensuring that if he could help no matter what the time of day or situation, he would. Wayne plowed snow every winter on his own accord for neighbors and older folks even at the sacrifice of his sleep. Later in life, when the ladies in his retirement community needed help he would haul out his old toolbox and fix anything they needed. Wayne was a master handyman who later continuously helped his daughter Courtenay (Cori) Bryant for hours with her food truck and later bar she managed in Washington, DC.

Wayne was a wonderful father to Courtenay Bryant. He was always there for her when she needed guidance on how to repair or trouble-shoot a problem and was a strong shoulder to lean on. He provided her with the wonderful example of how a good father and role model should be with his constant respect and admiration for his wife and daughter in his actions.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Pamela Delmage Bryant, daughter, Courtenay Bryant, brother, Barry Bryant, and sister-in-law, Linda Bryant.