Age 51, of New Brighton, MN. Passed away unexpectedly on August 25, 2021, at his home.

He is preceded in death by his father, Gene August Eckstein; brother, Mark Graser; and grandparents.

Wayne is survived by his mother, Janice Louise Anderson Pulford, Elk River, MN; siblings, Ricky (Vickie) Graser, Coon Rapids, MN; Kevin Graser, Winter Haven, FL; Gene (Heather) Eckstein, Big Lake, MN; and Julie Eckstein, Fargo, ND; numerous nieces & nephews, other family and friends.

Wayne was born August 7, 1970, in Bemidji, MN. He graduated from Bagley High School in 1988. He worked for many years as a custodian with Osseo Schools. Before then, he was owner of Smart Skate in Bemidji, MN, and ran a small business, Mr. Blinkie. He always had a smile to share and loved to joke around with family and friends.

A Celebration of Wayne’s Life will be from 12:00-2:00PM on Saturday, October 9, 2021, at Dare’s Funeral Home, 805 Main St, Elk River, with remembrances at 1:00PM.

Burial will be at Bagley City Cemetery on Sunday, October 10, 2021 at 1:00PM.  Following the interment, family and friends will gather at Fireside Grill and Patio in Bagley, Minnesota from 2:00 - 5:00PM.