Wayne Edward Spellman, 77, died peacefully on December 6, 2024, with his wife, Sue, at his side. He was born August 28th, 1947, in Salina, Kansas to Paul and Irma Spellman of Gypsum, Kansas. He attended Gypsum grade and high schools and graduated with the Class of 1965. He was very active in sports.
Wayne attended Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas graduating with his Bachelor of Arts in Finance in 1969. In September of 1969 Wayne served in the US Army in Vietnam and Germany as a Military Policeman. He received an honorable discharge for his service to his country in 1971. On May 17, 1974, Wayne married Susan (Sue) Forke. They celebrated 50 years of marriage in May 2024. They lived in Lawrence for over 50 years where Wayne worked as a Supervisor of Payroll at Kansas University until his retirement. While working at Kansas University they “adopted” 19 international students who became a special part of their family.
He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his beloved wife, Sue Spellman, Lawrence, Kansas; brother, Gary (Marva) Spellman of Lyons, Kansas; twin sister, Gail (Jim) Assink of Lynden, Washington; and many nieces and nephews.
A Visitation will be held Friday, Dec. 13, 2024, from 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM followed by a celebration of life service from 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, Lawrence, Kansas. A graveside service will be held for family and friends on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024, at 11:00 AM, at Gypsum Cemetery, Gypsum, Kansas.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Wayne’s honor can be sent to the Lawrence Humane Society.
Rest In Peace, Uncle Wayne. You were a great role model to a young kid growing up. So many great memories and you were always up for anything. You were one of the great human beings in this world. You will be missed!!!
Wayne was such a good guy. We have so many great memories of fun family times together. Rest in peace, Wayne.
Sue, I can’t even begin to say how sorry Jeff and I are to hear of Wayne’s passing. We loved being your neighbors for 10 years and will treasure those memories.
Just remember,
“Those we love don’t go away,
They walk beside us every day,
Unseen, unheard, but always near,
Still loved, still missed and very dear”.
May love and happy memories comfort you dear friend.
When I came to United States university of Kansas, Lawrence, DAD took me in to his care. He thought me many things in 17 years of my life in united states. After I moved out from lawrence, we talk frequently via phone, about Jayhowks, Footballs, weather, Cats that he care so much. Also, one day visit his home with buch of friends. We had good time that day. I spoke with mom and dad this december 1st talked about weather and many other things and have plans to visit when they come to visit his twin sister in wasthington. He is one of the best dad ever. I really dont want to belive he left us. I’m so sad.
Mom, I’m so sorry to hear about this. Wish I knew this and be able to stay by your side. My prayers are with you mom.
We were classmates in Gypsum from first grade on. You were always at the top of the class as a gentleman and a friend. I was proud to know you, and am so sorry to hear of your passing. Sue, may your heart be filled with pride and love just knowing you had the best of the best in your life.
Sue, I am sure sorry to hear about Wayne. He was so helpful and present in anything I needed at work. I remember out Christmas exchanges and we always made sure Wayne got whatever K State item he brought back to him. He was such a kind person.
Wayne was a most wonderful, happy, playful, fun and engaging person with a great sense of humor. He is missed.
I am so sorry to see this. Wayne was and always will be an ICON from the halls of Carruth O’Leary.
Sue – I am so very sorry for your loss. Wayne was such a staple in Carruth and helped so many of us over the years. My heart goes out to you during this difficult time.
Sue, I was so sorry to hear about Wayne. My deepest condolences to you and yours.
Wayne was always great company. A great, great gentleman.
Sue- I’m so sorry to hear about Wayne passing. He had the biggest smile, especially when you were by his side. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Sue, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Wayne. He was such a good person. He was so kind to the people with whom he worked, and always so helpful. I loved his dry wit and sense of humor. You’re in my thoughts and prayers. RIP, Wayne.
Sorry to hear of Wayne’s passing. I remember (early in my time at KU) being annoyed when I picked up the phone and heard “this is Wayne in Payroll.” He was typically calling to tell me another payroll line i managed was short of funds. Quickly, I learned to appreciate his help and pay attention. He nearly always told me where excess money existed to cover the shortage. He was good at his job and helped me on countless occasions.
I too was sorry to hear of Wayne’s passing. And I hold all the same sentiments expressed by others on this site. I will always remember fondly days at Carruth (even though I was in a different department) and times on the softball diamond. He will be missed.
Sue, I am sorry to hear about Wayne’s passing. Wayne always made me smile. He energy and positive outlook we contagious. My sympathy and thoughts are with you and your family.
Sue – So sorry to read about Wayne’s passing. My heart goes out to you and your family. I wish you peace and comfort during this time – with deepest condolences. Richard
Sue and Spellman Family
II am so sorry to learn of Wayne’s passing ihave fond memories of time spent walking across campus on our breaks.i have seen wayne a few times at walmart and we would stop and talk about what we had been doing since we retired..
Sue: I am sorry to learn of your loss of Wayne. When I worked in Carruth he was always very helpful and I always enjoyed his company. John commented there is one less KSU fan in Lawrence.You are in my thoughts.
To the family, I am sorry to hear of Wayne’s passing. He was a great guy to work with and always a big help when needed. My condolences and hope you find peace in your memories with Wayne.
I’m so sorry to hear about Wayne passing. He was a lot of fun. He used to play softball with David many years ago Maybe they can get a game going in heaven.
Aunt Sue,
My heart truly goes out to you. Uncle Wayne was so kind and compassionate. I have many memories of going to World’s of Fun, softball games, holidays, and the KU Jayhawks. I will miss him.
Sue – so sorry to see this. Wayne was such a kind soul. Our prayers are with you during this difficult time. Ronda and Dan
Sue, I’m so sorry to learn of Wayne’s passing. I have such fond memories of time spent with you and the kindness of you and Wayne. Know that you are in my thoughts.