Arthur “Wayne” Fruchey, age 89, of Beaverton, passed away on Thursday, April 18, 2024. He was born on March 2, 1935, the son of Arthur Fruchey and Mae Bardwell, in Gladwin County. On January 22, 1955, Wayne married the love of his life, Marlene Berk, and together they shared many years of love and cherished memories.
Wayne was a true outdoorsman who found joy in hunting and fishing. He was particularly passionate about training bird dogs and achieved notable success, including producing the Grand National Grouse Championship Winner, Ghost Train. He also enjoyed foraging for mushrooms and took pride in his bountiful garden. Many fond memories were made at the Family Cabin on the Ausable River, where Wayne once caught a remarkable 10lb, 29-inch Brown Trout using one of his meticulously tied flies. Wayne also dedicated years to coaching his sons’ baseball teams.
A respected member of the Beaverton community, Wayne was a retired business owner of the Beaverton IGA. He actively served on various boards, including Chemical Bank and the IFRA Trust Insurance Board, and held leadership positions such as President of the Super Foods Services Retail Advisory Board. Wayne was instrumental in founding several organizations, including the Beaverton Area Business Association and the Beaverton Grouse Dog Club. His contributions extended to the sporting world, where he served on the Board of the Grand National Grouse Championship and was a proud member of the Gladwin/Beaverton Bowling Hall of Fame.
Wayne’s dedication to his community was recognized when he served as the Grand Marshal of the Beaverton Parade alongside his beloved wife, Marlene.
He is survived by his loving wife: Marlene Fruchey; children: Thomas (Kelly) Fruchey and Robert (Donna) Fruchey; grandchildren: Matthew (Kristy) Fruchey, Lauren (James) Guzman, Justin (Lindy) Fruchey, and Jarrod Fruchey; great-grandchildren: Maelen, Braeden, Graham, Erin, and Hudson; and sister: Norma (Roger) Johnson.
Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Mae.
Funeral services will take place on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home in Beaverton. Visitation will be held on Monday, April 22, 2024, from 2:00-8:00 P.M. at Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home in Beaverton. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Hospice of Gladwin. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home. www.hallkokotovichfuneralhome.com
