Wayne Allen Ducharme, “WayneO”, age 66, passed away unexpectedly on the evening of Thursday, March 20th, 2025 in Canterbury, CT. He was born on January 26th, 1959 to Leon Armand Ducharme and Theresa Marie Vivier in Norwich, CT.

Wayne previously held positions as a Kennel Master and Lure Operator at the Plainfield Greyhound Track followed by a tenure as a Press and Injection Rubber Molding Operator at Rubber Molding, Inc (RMI) & Connecticut Rubber Molding (CRM).

Wayne saw a bright light in everyone who he crossed paths with and always had time to share in a story, often making a simple task such as a 2-minute grocery stop into an hours long chat with a new friend. In solitude, Wayne felt most at-peace while tinkering all night in any garage, shop, or basement, surrounded by the sound of outlaw country music. His family was of most importance, instilling in his children the values he held highest: respect, thoughtfulness, caring for those in need, and having a good time.

Recipients of WayneO’s wisdom might be familiar with phrases such as, “Who loves ya baby,” “Be cool but not too cool; live by the golden rule,” “Don’t worry ‘bout nothing; nothing’s gonna be all right,” and, “it’s a memory you’ll never forget” each of which imparted his uniquely light-hearted perspective on life.

Wayne is survived by two children, Meagan and Jacob Ducharme, their respective spouses, Kait Ducharme and Emma Kraner, his former wife, Cindy Corrente, and three step-grandchildren, as well as six siblings: Carol Fontaine, Leona Brochu, Brian Ducharme, Darlene Sleboda, Michael Ducharme, and Michelle Koziol. He was also a well-admired uncle to fourteen nieces and nephews. Wayne is pre-deceased by his parents, Leon and Theresa Ducharme, and daughter Samantha Ann Ducharme.

Calling Hours will be held on Friday, March 28th, 2025 from 11am to 1pm at Dougherty Brothers Funeral Home, 595 Norwich Road, Plainfield, CT. Inurnment will immediately follow at All Hallows Cemetery, Moosup, CT.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the Friends of Pachaug Forest, https://www.friendsofpachaugforest.org/