Wayne A. Wares

Wayne A. Wares, 90, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 7, 1935, Wayne lived a life rooted in Family, Faith, Service and Hard Work. Wayne was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 69 years, Vonnie Rae Wares; his son, Larry Wares; his parents, Allen and Mary Wares; and his sisters, Shirley Robinson and Jean Schoepski.

He is survived by his children, Ted (Sue) Wares, Mike (Paula) Wares, Rod (Becky) Wares, and Kellie (Scott) Taylor. Wayne also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Becky (Derek) Wolff, Jamie (Chris) Morman, Lindsay (Mike) Fidder, Caleb (Maja) Wares, Craig (Allison) Wares, Eric (Brittany) Wares, Hannah Taylor, and Karlie Taylor, along with 10 great-grandchildren who brought him tremendous joy. Wayne proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1955 to 1957, serving in Germany and attending jump school in Augsburg, Germany. He often joked about “jumping out of perfectly good airplanes,” a reflection of both his courage and sense of humor. From a young age, Wayne had a deep love for farming and everything John Deere. His strong work ethic and dedication to his community were evident through his 25 years of service as the Poplar Grove Township Road Commissioner. He was also a faithful member of the Poplar Grove United Methodist Church. Above all, Wayne treasured his family and the life he built with Vonnie Rae Wares of almost 70 Years together, they could often be found dancing at the Moose Club or the Pink Poodle, enjoying music, laughter, and the company of friends and family. Their love and joy for life were evident to everyone who knew them. Wayne will be remembered for his devotion to family, his service to his community and especially his love for farming with his family and friends. The kindness and humor he shared with everyone around him, especially his famous saying “Whatever” He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Poplar Grove United Methodist Church, 105 E. Grove Street, Poplar Grove, Illinois 61065. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 28, 2026, also at the church. Burial will follow at Highland Garden of Memories in Belvidere, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to one of Wayne’s favorite charities, VetsRoll.

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