Wayne Bransfield, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2024. Born on April 3, 1941, Wayne lived a rich and adventurous life filled with love, music, and craftsmanship.
Wayne is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years, Patricia (Cope), and his children: Dan Bransfield (Tracey), Paula Whan (Justin), Will Bransfield (Becky), Tracy Taylor (James), Meredith Phillips and Dave Collier (Ann) whom he joyfully welcomed into his life later on. He is predeceased by his son, Chris Bransfield. Wayne was a cherished grandfather to 18 grandchildren and a proud great-grandfather to two.
A master bricklayer by trade, Wayne began honing his skills in the 1950s. He taught his trade to apprentices at Mohawk College for 7 years and helped start up a program for apprentices in British Columbia, where he taught for an additional 8 years. Bricklaying was also a profession that would take him on many journeys, including multiple trips to Japan and Indonesia. Wayne’s passion for travel was evident throughout his life.
Beyond his career, Wayne was a musician at heart. Inspired by the legendary Earl Scruggs, he mastered the banjo and was given an opportunity to back up musicians in Bluegrass, this also gave him the opportunity to play the renowned stage of the Grand Ole Opry. He went on to play various instruments, including the guitar, double bass, and mandolin. Some of Wayne’s most treasured memories were the times he played music with his brother Jake, both in British Columbia and Arizona. He also cherished his visits to Barry’s Bay, where he would join his sister Nancy, her partner Andre, and their extended family for memorable jam sessions.
In addition to his musical talents, Wayne was an avid remote control modeler. He skillfully created intricate and large-scale warplanes, such as the Lancaster and Halifax bombers, from scratch. This hobby brought him lifelong friends and connections across the globe. This hobby also brought him to become a Middle Zone Director for the Model Aeronautics Association of Canada from 1992-1993 and again in 1999-1993. He became President of MAAC from 2001-2003.
Wayne’s life was a testament to the joy of exploring new horizons, whether through travel, music, or hobbies. His legacy of love, talent, and craftsmanship will continue to inspire all who knew him.
The family wants to thank all of Wayne’s friends for helping through his illness, you made a world of difference for Wayne and his family. The family also wants to thank the special people who work and volunteer at the Carpenter Hospice. You made for such a comfortable atmosphere for Wayne and his family at the end.
A celebration of Wayne’s life will be held at a later date at the Burlington Legion. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Carpenter Hospice.
Please sign the Tribute Wall: www.kitchingsteepeandludwig.com
