Wayne K. Smart

Ware - Wayne K. Smart, 71, of Ware, died on Tuesday, January 28, 2020 at Western Massachusetts Hospital after a long period of declining health. 

He leaves his son, Eric Smart of West Warren, two daughters, Melissa Wildman of Belchertown and Jennifer Smart of Springfield, five grandchildren, Jacob Smart, Anna Harrington, Kaila Hiersche, Chelsea Smart, and Grace Smart.  He also leaves his three sisters, Susan LaValley, Kathy Jurczyk and Gloria Chaplin.  He was born in Ware, son of the late Kenneth and Annette Smart and was a life-long resident of Ware.

After just turning 20 years old, Wayne enlisted is the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, and served on the U.S.S. Little Rock, Guided Missle Cruiser.  He loved his time in the Navy and spoke often of how he was able to see the world traveling throughout Europe and the Middle East.  After leaving the Navy, he remained a member of the National Guard for 15 years. 

Wayne worked as a machine operator at FLEXcon in Spencer for over 25 years where he made many friends. He enjoyed researching and following war history and biographies, as well as other historical documentaries on television.  Most of all though, he loved his children and grandchildren. 

He was a former member of All Saint’s Church in Ware.

Calling hours for Wayne will be held on Thursday evening, February 6, 2020 from 5 to 7PM in the Charbonneau Funeral Home, 30 Pleasant Street in Ware.  At 7:00PM, Rev. Piotr Calik will provide committal prayers, followed by Military Honors presented by the United States Navy Honor Guard. Burial will be in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cemetery at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to DAV Disabled American Veterans at www.dav.org.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Wayne K. Smart, please visit our floral store.