Wayne L. Gravenstein, age 82, was called home by God on December 8, 2024. He was born on July 26, 1942 to Moody and Marion (Olson) Gravenstein in Freeport, IL. He graduated from Freeport High School in 1960 and served in the United States Army from 1962 to 1964. He married Sherry Boeke, his schoolmate from Kindergarten in 1963. After serving in the Army, they moved back to the Freeport area where they raised their four children. Seven years ago, they moved in with their daughter, Kelli in Winnebago.

Wayne received an Associate's Degree from Highland Community College as an adult. He worked in accounting, opened the Gravy Boat restaurant in Galena, IL, opened the Dairy Queen in Freeport and later worked at Menard's until retirement in 2008.

Wayne loved fishing and camping, especially serving as camp host with Sherry at Boulder Lake National Park in Wisconsin for over five summers. He loved having all the kids around, big and small. Everyone got a nickname from Grandpa.

He will be missed by his cherished family. His wife of 61 years, Sherry; daughter, Kelli (Chris) Mulkins; son, Jeffrey (Tera) Gravenstein; eight grandchildren, Rob Mulkins, Kellsey Bieck, Emily (Aaron) Phillips, Katie Mulkins, Alex (Emily) Gravenstein, Anna (Kevin) Klopfenstein, Abby Price, and Amie Gravenstein; three great grandchildren, Damian Smith, Clara Gravenstein and Oliver Phillips; special bonus grandchildren, Kailani, Liam, Lorelei, and Jo; special son and daughter-in-law, Kirby and Kim Price; and a beloved niece, Mary Rebecca Gravenstein of Minneapolis.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents; son Todd; daughter, Amy Price; and brother, Edwin.

Following cremation, a memorial service will be held at Walker Mortuary on Thursday, December 12, 2024 at 11:30 a.m. with a visitation before the service beginning at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow at Bethany United Church of Christ in Freeport. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established for the American Diabetes Association. Condolences may be shared at www.walkermortuary.com.