In a heartfelt move to preserve and extend the legacy of a beloved community figure, the Shiawassee Community Foundation is proud to announce the Wayne Waldie Memorial Scholarship Fund. This represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to honor the memory of Wayne “Gus” Waldie, a distinguished World War II U.S. Army veteran and a lifelong resident of the Bancroft, Corunna, and Durand areas in Michigan.
Wayne Waldie, a proud graduate of Bancroft High School, and the husband of Lucille G. Bruno, left an enduring impact on our community through both his professional achievements and his personal passions. With a successful career at Simplicity Engineering in Durand, Wayne’s skills as an auto mechanic, machine repairman, and woodworker were widely respected. Yet, his contributions extended beyond his professional life; Wayne was an avid gardener and had a deep affection for the Durand trains, which further underscored his love for his hometown.
Wayne’s commitment to his community was unwavering. A devoted member of the First Congregational Church of Bancroft, he exemplified the values of service, dedication, and education. In line with these principles, Wayne took it upon himself to establish two scholarships—one for students in the Durand Area Schools and another for students in the Saginaw Township Community Schools. These scholarships are designed to support hardworking students pursuing trades education, reflecting Wayne’s desire to invest in the next generation of skilled workers and his commitment to giving back to the community that meant so much to him.
Wayne “Gus” Waldie passed away on November 13, 2006, at the age of 90, at Memorial Healthcare in Owosso. His legacy, however, continues to inspire and uplift those who knew him and those who benefit from his generosity. To ensure that Wayne’s contributions to education and community are not forgotten, Durand Area Schools has partnered with the Shiawassee Community Foundation. This collaboration will facilitate the efficient administration and growth of the Wayne Waldie Memorial Scholarship Fund, ensuring that it continues to benefit students for years to come.
We invite all members of the community, as well as supporters of education, to join us in this important mission. Your donations to the Wayne Waldie Memorial Scholarship Fund will directly empower local students to pursue trades education, keeping Wayne’s spirit alive and fostering a brighter future for our community. Every contribution, no matter the size, plays a critical role in honoring the legacy of a remarkable individual and supporting the dreams of our youth.
To make a donation to the Wayne Waldie Memorial Scholarship Fund, please visit the Shiawassee Community Foundation’s website at https://www.shiacf.org/donate/. Your generosity will make a meaningful difference in the lives of aspiring students and ensure that Wayne Waldie’s legacy endures for generations to come.
For further inquiries or more information, please contact:
Amanda Bruner, Program Manager
Shiawassee Community Foundation
📧 amanda@shiacf.org
📞 989-725-1093