In Loving Memory of
Wayne Devitt
1945 - 2022
Obituary of Wayne Devitt
J.Wayne Devitt died peacefully in his 78th year at the Port Colborne Hospital on Tuesday, December 13, 2022 after an almost 21 year battle with cancer. Wayne leaves behind his wife of 54 years Patti, his daughter Melissa, his son Michael (Amanda) and his grandchildren Lila and Gibson. Wayne also leaves behind his 2 brothers, Larry (Susan) and Terry (Judy), his brother in law Warren (Carol) Alder as well as his nieces and nephews. Wayne adored his family and loved creating memories with them. Wayne is predeceased by his parents, Jean and Carl and his Aunt Helen. His Aunt Pat resides in Summerland, BC.Shortly after marrying, Patti and Wayne moved to the Niagara area from the Durham region. Wayne began his teaching career at A.N. Myer Secondary and remained there for his entire 30 year career. Wayne was an excellent educator and coach and taught all that he came into contact with perseverance, integrity, commitment and sportsmanship. He was affectionately referred to as "Mr. Myer" and his photo is gracing both the Myer Sports Wall of Fame as well as the City of Niagara Falls Sports Wall of Fame.
When not teaching or coaching, Wayne enjoyed traveling and instilled this love in his children and wife. The family travelled extensively throughout the USA and Europe after his retirement. Wayne also actively participated in hockey, coaching in Pelham and gardening. Wayne took great pride in his gardens.
The family would like to thank the countless healthcare workers, doctors, nurses and aides that have been on this journey with Wayne. His team at Hamilton Health Sciences; Dr. Davis, Dr. Shayegan and Dr. Hotte were nothing short of exemplary and fought for Wayne to have 20 additional years with his family and friends. To the Niagara team of EMS, PSW's and palliative care nurses, we thank you. You were a bright light in a very dark storm. Lastly, a heartfelt debt of gratitude and love to Dr. Tim Tatzel, Wayne's primary care doctor. Dr. Tatzel and his team (Lana and Vi) were always there to support and comfort. Dr. Tatzel attended to Wayne at his residence during this last month and we cannot ever begin to express how incredibly grateful we are that doctors like Dr. Tatzel exist.
A celebration of life will be held at A.N. Myer Secondary in Niagara Falls, ON on Saturday, January 28, 2023 from 1-4 PM. The celebration will take place in the school's cafeteria.
A private family ceremony will be at the family cemetery at a later date. Donations, if you would like to honour Wayne, can be made to Cancer Care Ontario (prostate), Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, or the Niagara SPCA. Arrangements are entrusted to Essentials Cremation and Burial Services.
Service Information
A Celebration of Life
Date: January 28, 2023Start Time: 1:00 pm
End Time: 4:00 pm
Venue: A.N. Myer Secondary, 6338 O'Neil St, Niagara Falls in the school's cafeteria.
https://goo.gl/maps/LxMGkQ4Z4M5Rppag6
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Donations
The family of Wayne Devitt would like you to consider placing a donation to one of the following charities:
Heart & Stroke FoundtationVisit Site
Niagara SPCA
Visit Site
Cancer Care Ontario (prostate). Cheques can be mailed to 500-525 University Avenue Toronto, Ontario Canada M5G 2L3.
Note: If you make a donation, please notify the family by posting a condolence.
Melissa,
Your Dad‘s epic battle with cancer surpasses heroic efforts. I will remember him as, “Melissa’s cool dad.”
Best memory: heads boppin’’, Darien Lake NY, Kid Rock concert. I want to be a cowboy, baby!
Love you.
Wayne (Mr. Devitt to me) was our football coach in the mid 70’s. He was a great coach, both in football and in life. He taught me a very import lesson, but did so with compassion and understanding and that lesson stays with me today. I am grateful that I had the opportunity to have him as a teacher.
He was a great guy, I am sorry he passed so young.
Patti &family
Sorry for your loss. The years I spent with Wayne in teaching, coaching and golfing are some of my fondest memories.Wayne was always a gentleman and what he conveyed to his students and players will long be remembered. We had numerous discussions regarding his battle with prostate cancer but he always remained optimistic.It is very fitting that the celebration of life will take place at AN Myer as he contributed so much to the school. Unfortunately we will be away but we will be thinking of you and your family.
Barb & Tom Sills
Dear Patti and family, it has been many years since our paths crossed but we remember Wayne for his wry sense of humour.. We have a picture of Wayne and Howie. Triano at Bob’s 40th birthday party in Queenston, a little over 40 years ago.. We are so sorry for your loss. Wayne touched many lives and his memory lives on in them. Bob and Carolynne Canham
Wayne. a great neighbour, helpful, supportive and friendly. an excellent cycling buddy. Over the years we must have covered thousands of km. Always fun. The time and distance just flew by. Rest well Wayne, you will be missed. Ron Brander
I am very sorry to hear about the passing of Wayne. I look back to when briefly worked with him; he always displayed kindness and caring to both students and colleagues alike. His understated humour was always enjoyed by all. He will be sadly missed.
Patti, Melissa, Michael and families, we want to extend our most sincere condolences at this sad time. We have some great memories from when the kids were growing up together and the fun we had with hockey and other events. May your memories of good times and travel sustain you as you take a fork in your life paths. We are sending our love to you all. He will be missed by so many.
Dear Devitt Family,
I was saddened to hear Mr. Devitt has passed away. Mr.Devitt taught me back in the early 80s and as well he was also my guidance counselor. He was always kind, patient, friendly, helpful, and approachable. Unlike some teachers that do the job just because they like the perks of the job. Mr. Devitt truly loved what he did which was evident in how he treated students because it was a calling for Mr.Devitt and not just a job. Thank you for your dedicated service!
I know there are no words that can ease your pain, but I’m wishing you peace & comfort during this difficult time.
R. Diodati
It was with sorrow that I learned of Wayne’s passing. Wayne and his family and mine were next door neighbours when we were all growing up on Jane St. It was a great neighbourhood and we were all good friends. When thinking of Wayne now, I think of the time in high school when one morning I found Wayne filling in for my Chemistry teacher. For the few weeks that he did, after class, we would have a quick chat and a few chuckles. I thought it was pretty great that I had my friend for a teacher.
My condolences to his family and the Devitt family.
It is with great sadness that I hear of Mr Devitt’s passing. He was my football coach at Myer, my guidance counselor and friend. I have never met a more caring man who truly respected and mentored his players and students. Mr Devitt did more good for me in high school than I could put into words. He truly had a powerful impact on my life post high school and It was always a pleasure speaking with him while watching other football games after his retirement. I can truly understand how important he was to his family. Rest easy Mr Devitt and thank you for your life long impact. I will never forget you and the impact you had on my life. Until we meet again, life will always be a first down.
So very sorry for your loss.
Sending sincere condolences to the family and his extended family. His memory will live on in his family and those he touched over the years.