Wayne Edward Chandler

Wayne Edward Chandler, 48, North Manchester, Indiana, passed away suddenly from health complications on February 18, 2021 at his home.  Wayne was born on April 24, 1972 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to the late James Wayne and Nancy (Turnbow) Chandler. When Wayne was seven months old, his mother Nancy passed away. His father later married Ruth (Springer), who Wayne considered a mother.

An accomplished drywaller and painter, Wayne spent many years performing these skills before his health forced him to retire. After losing both legs, many people would have a sour outlook on life, but Wayne turned this experience into something positive, which he would joke about. Wayne was a big kid at heart, but he was willing to help others and volunteered his time at Rock Solid in North Manchester, Indiana. His lighthearted personality and heart of gold made it easy for people to get along with him.

On April 18, 2011 Wayne married his best friend, Tina Kauffman. Although Wayne never had any children of his own, he had two wonderful stepchildren. He also thought of his nieces and nephews as his own children and loved spending time with them and talking to them.

The loving, fun memories of Wayne Chandler will be forever cherished by his mother, Ruth Chandler, Ossian, Indiana; wife, Tina Chandler, North Manchester, Indiana; stepson, Trevor Laws; stepdaughter, Samantha Laws; brothers, James “Jimmy” (Carolyn) Chandler Harlan, Indiana, and Scott (Jeni) Chandler, Roanoke, Indiana; sisters, Shelby (Burk) Evans, Bluffton, Indiana, Rebecca (Marshall) Kunderd, Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Stephanie (Drew) Sauers, Columbia City, Indiana; and many nieces and nephews. Wayne was preceded in death by his father, mother, and brother, Stephen Chandler.

Private services will be held at a later date.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Wayne Edward Chandler, memorial contributions may be made to The American Diabetes Association, 2451 Crystal Drive, Suite 900, Arlington, Virginia 22202.

The family of Wayne Edward Chandler has entrusted McKee Mortuary with final arrangements.