Wayne VanTichelt, age 75, of Lansing, Illinois passed away peacefully at his home on December 23, 2023 from complications of cancer. Wayne was born on February 1, 1948 in Hyde Park Chicago, Illinois to Louis and Joyce VanTichelt. After graduating from Mt. Carmel, he was immediately drafted into the Navy. Wayne was a Boilermaker by trade. Between Wisconsin Steel and Inland he retired after 40 years in the steel mills. He belonged to USW for many years, and after retiring he enjoyed a monthly breakfast with his retired union members.

During his free time he enjoyed fishing with his kids, grandkids, cousins, friends and coworkers from Lake Michigan to Canada to Acapulco to Arizona. Wayne loved to fish. He also loved to tell his fishing stories and various other stories to make you laugh. He was known to always help anyone and again make you laugh while helping and telling stories. His kind and generous attitude along with being humorous and a loving dad, brother, uncle, cousin and grandpa. Wayne will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Til we meet again Mr. Fix-it.

Wayne is survived by his loving wife Kathleen of 54 years, brother Paul, Barry and sister Linda, loving father of Craig (Jennifer), Brett, Brad (Carrie). Cherished grandfather of Ian, Haley, Isabella, Mallory, Gavin, Claire and Paige, who love and miss you so much!

Out of respect and honoring Wayne's wishes, no services will be held at this time. The Military Memorial Burial Service will be held here in Illinois, at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, Illinois later this year in the spring.

A Celebration of Life, where stories to be shared, with laughter and the spirit of Wayne being felt by all. The date for this gathering will be announced later, giving family and friends a chance to get together in tribute to his humble and humorous life lived. Our family is deeply touched by the overwhelming love and kindness in Wayne's honor. www.schroederlauer.com