Michael Wayne Ard II, age 34 of Louisiana died suddenly on Saturday, February 20, 2021, in a car accident.

               Known to everyone as Wayne, he was born in Kenner on March 10, 1986. In 2004 Wayne graduated from Andrew Jackson High School in Chalmette, Louisiana. He was previously married to Alicia Stretz Ard, and is the father of Benjamin and Sebastian Ard.

               Beloved by all who knew him, Wayne never met a stranger he couldn’t turn into a friend. He was known for his carefree nature and his sense of humor. Wayne was a state champion wrestler in high school, and an avid hunter and fisherman. As a life-long lover of nature and the outdoors, Wayne had a profound respect for wildlife. He was never happier than when his sons were born, and he put a fishing pole in their hands as soon as they could walk.

               Wayne is survived by his ex-wife, Alicia Stretz Ard and their two sons, Benjamin Hunter Ard and Sebastian Daniel Ard; his father, Michael Ard Sr.; his mother and stepfather, Stephanie and Daniel Badinger; his paternal grandmother, Lurline Ard; his maternal grandparents, Warren and Karen Gravois; his sister Jessica Ard and her partner Jason; his sister Carly Fielding and her husband Luke; two nephews, Case and Cole, and two nieces, Amelia and Anais; in addition he is survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Wayne was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, A.J. Ard.

               Following a cremation, Wayne’s family will plan a memorial in the near future once everyone can safely gather to celebrate his life. As he struggled so visibly with alcohol addiction, his family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his name to Bridge House in New Orleans. Please support your loved ones fighting addiction.