A one-in-a-million man has left us. Wayne "Deed" Propst died Sunday morning, September 30, 2018 at the age of 89. He was a friend to all and made it a point to make the acquaintance of everyone he encountered. Then he became your friend for life and probably gave you a nickname. He was an active member of the Argenta community for many years, where he hosted many porch parties for elderly nursing home residents and his grandkids (adopted and otherwise) while waiting for the school bus. Impromptu jam sessions on his front porch by his dear friend Howard Mayberry were enjoyed by many. The entire Argenta community gave him a "Kiss Off" on Valentine's Day when he moved to Randall Residence (formerly known as Keystone Retirement Community) where he became a part of this close-knit family of friends.
Wayne was born in Cerro Gordo, Illinois "at home I guess, because they didn't have a hospital," the son of Wayne Delbert and Alice Ruey (Webb). He married Mary Jane Grace March 22, 1947 in Decatur, Illinois and they "honeymooned" at the St. Nicholas Hotel in Springfield, Illinois after being dropped off by Mary Jane's sister and husband and the next day they rode the Interurban back home to Decatur.
Wayne was a life member of the Painter's Union Local #288. He worked hard and played even harder as he loved life and lived it to the fullest. He enjoyed playing cards, dancing, baking and golfing (most memorably his hole-in-one in Desert Hot Springs where they spent many winters).
He leaves to cherish his memories, his children: Terry Wayne Propst (Bonnie) of Decatur, Cynthia Lynn Pritchard (Don) of Pleasant Plains, and Christopher James Propst (April) of Argenta; seven grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren. He loved his grandbabies dearly and taught them all to say "I Love PoPo".
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 4, 2018 at Pilgrim Lutheran Church where he was an active and faithful member for many years. Pastors Bill and Brock Abbott will officiate. Visitation will begin at 10:00 with the funeral service at 11:00.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Mary Jane, brother Stanley Dean and sisters Nina Jean Yurecko and Joyce (Hunt) Fruit.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Wayne's honor may be given to Pilgrim Lutheran Church.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family in care of Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Homes at www.brintlingerandearl.com.
