Wayne John Grefrath age 84, of Batavia, passed away on Tuesday, May 7, 2024 at the New York State Veterans Home surrounded by his family.
He was born in Batavia January 7,1940, the son of the late John D. and Marion Hickox Grefrath of Alexander.
He grew up on a small farm on Alexander Road and attended Alexander Central school where he was active in FFA and all things musical. He graduated in 1957 and went on to Alfred State College where he sang with many choral groups. He graduated in 1959.
On October 14, 1961 he married the late Deanna Wilson Grefrath who passed away November 12, 2000. They resided for many years on Lewiston Road in the Town of Batavia where Wayne was known for his large garden, especially his sweet corn.
A proud Army Veteran he served at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC as a chaplain's assistant. He was honorably discharged in 1966 with the rank of Specialist Fifth Class.
He was employed at Graham Corporation for 37 years retiring in 2003 as a senior estimator. He was a lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, where he held nearly every elected and appointed position. he taught Sunday school and Bible Class and sang in the choir for many years. He served on the board of education at Oakfield Alabama Central School for 15 years, the last two as President. He was a member and past president of the Graham Retirees and past member and president of the former Batavia Sertoma Club.
He is survived by his wife of 21 years, Sharon Shadbolt Grefrath, whom he married on October 26, 2002; two daughters, Cheryl (James) Allein and Susan (Don) Herman both of Attica; one son Scott (Casandra) Grefrath of Cheektowaga; five grandchildren, Abby, Alyssa, and Braden Allein, Isaac Herman and Wilson Grefrath. Also surviving are his three step daughters, Kelly (Bill) Shafer of Michigan, Kristine (Robert) Beck of Colorado, and Karin Westfield of Los Angeles, California. Also eleven step grandchildren and two step great grandchildren; his brother, Warren (late Grace) Grefrath of Alexander and nieces and nephews survive.
Friends may call on Friday from 4 pm to 7 pm at the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia. Funeral services will be held on Saturday at 10 am at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 31 Washington Avenue, Batavia. He will be laid to rest in Hartland Central Cemetery, Gasport. Memorials may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church 31 Washington Avenue, Batavia, New York 14020 or Gateway Home, 91 Main Street, Attica, New York 14011.
To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.
