Wayne Finney, 83

On Friday, March 15, 2024, Wayne Howard Finney, USAF Lt.C Ret, 83, died in Washington. Born in Hamilton, in 1940 to Howard and Lona Finney, Wayne was a good student athlete, and after graduation he enrolled at the University in Missoula.

He earned money for college working in sawmills and as a smoke-jumper while studying English Literature and Theater. As a thespian and a Sigma Chi he had some fun before joining the Air Force. Wayne and his sweetheart Sharon Stewart were married in New Mexico. The couple were living in Texas when their daughter Shannon was born. After about 18 months of pilot training Wayne was stationed at Montana Air National Guard where Wayne and Sharon welcomed their son Jay. 

At retirement, Wayne and Sharon moved to the Flathead Valley where they ran their home as a Bed & Breakfast and were realtors. Among Wayne's achievements was helping found a library in Lakeside. After Sharon's death, Wayne later moved to the Seattle area to live with Jay and family. 

He is survived by his daughter Shannon, with her husband Todd; his son Jay, with his wife Patty, and their children Olivia, and Jim. 

Wayne's wishes were to be cremated: no funeral will be held. In lieu of cards and flowers please make a donation to a library of your choice.