Obituary of Wayne DeWolfe

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It is with heavy hearts that the family of William “Wayne” DeWolfe, age 73, announce his unexpected passing at home on September 2, 2025, in Antigonish. Formerly of Heatherton, Wayne was born on December 18, 1951, in St. Martha’s Hospital to the late Thomas “Leonard” and Emmanuel ‘a Cecilia (DeCoste) DeWolfe.

Wayne’s early years were spent working in both Nova Scotia and Ontario, cutting pulpwood in the forests—hard work that spoke to his quiet strength and dedication. He later began a long and fulfilling career as a custodian at St. Francis Xavier University, where he worked for over 25 years until his early retirement in 2006 due to illness.

A passionate lover of antique cars and trucks, Wayne took great joy in attending car shows, going for scenic drives, and making weekly trips to Mary Brown’s. But more than anything, he treasured sharing those simple joys with the love of his life and best friend, his wife Patricia “Trish” MacLellan, with whom he shared over 45 years by his side.

Wayne was a family man through and through. He cherished every moment spent with his children and grandchildren, always finding time to be present, supportive, and loving.

Wayne is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia “Trish” MacLellan; daughter Juanita (Mike) Hilker of Ontario; son Patrick (Morgan) DeWolfe of Hillside and beloved grandchildren Marc, Austin, Alexis, Abby, and Noelle. He also leaves behind his siblings: Wally (Thelma) DeWolfe and Curtis DeWolfe, both of Antigonish; and sister Linda (Jimmy) Partridge of Heatherton. Wayne will be lovingly remembered by his in-laws: Gerard MacLellan, Darrell MacLellan, Mary MacDonald, Beverly (Beau) MacDonald, Marie MacLellan, Caroline (Stephen) Arsenault, and Mary-Theresa (Bobby) MacLellan-Layes; all of Antigonish or Heatherton. He held a special bond with his goddaughter and niece, Kaitlyn Arsenault, and was a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Wayne was predeceased by his parents, Thomas “Leonard” and Emmanuel ‘a DeWolfe; his in-laws Johnny and Nellie (Linkletter) MacLellan; brother Lawrence DeWolfe, and sisters Jean (DeWolfe), Stella (Hanlon), and Shirley (Mahoney). He is also predeceased by brothers-in-law Robert MacLellan, Michael MacDonald and his grandson Ryan Nadrofsky.

Wayne's warm heart, gentle soul, and unwavering love for his family will be dearly missed and fondly remembered, 

Visitation will be held from 2:00-5:00 pm on Sunday, September 7th, 2025 in MacIsaac Funeral Home, 61 Pleasant St., Antigonish.  Family & close friends will gather for service Monday September 8th, 2025, at 11am with Father Danny MacLennan presiding in MacIsaac Funeral Home. 

Family would like to Thank VON and Home Care services for all their help and support over the years. You all provided great care, we are grateful for each and everyone of you.

Donations in Wayne's memory may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or Diabetes Canada.