Junior Wayne Lissman passed away Jan. 12, surrounded by loving family.

Wayne was born Jan. 7, 1925, in Nelson, Neb.

Wayne married his high school sweetheart, Phyllis Mae Smith, Oct. 5, 1943, at the Episcopal Church in Lander, Wyo.  They had been married 75 years at the time of his death. In 1944, Wayne “shipped” to the Pacific where he fought in World War II as part of the 503rd Parachute Infantry that spearheaded the liberation of the Philippine Islands.  He was part of the force that captured the “Rock Fortress” on Corregidor Island, a military action noted for its fierce battles and strategic importance in opening Manila Bay for maneuvering by Allied Forces. He distinguished himself as a paratrooper, earning many medals and a Presidential Citation for bravery as he and his comrades in arms won control of the Philippine Islands, an important step leading to the end of the war.

Upon returning to civilian life, Wayne lived in Denver, Colo., and in Nyssa, Burns, Seneca, and Hines. He worked as a mechanic, farmer, heavy equipment operator, and truck driver in the construction and logging industries. He also managed a construction crew that weatherized homes in Harney County.

Wayne spent his leisure hours working and playing with his children and grandchildren and was as proud of them as they are of him. Wayne’s home was a “bit of a community center,” as his children’s friends frequently congregated there to enjoy his warmth, humor, and attention.

Wayne will be remembered for his work ethic, wisdom, patience, positive outlook on life, and for his dry-wit, but mostly for his caring and kindness for everyone with whom he had contact. He loved many, and was loved by all who knew him.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Phyllis Mae Lissman; brother, James, and his wife, Betty; daughter, Elaine; son, Larry, and his wife, Lydia; and son, Henry, and his wife, Roxie Ann;  four grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Della Webb and Henry Lissman; sisters, Evelyn Lovell and Kathleen (Babe) Dennis; brother, Raymond Lissman; and son-in-law, Mike Violette.

There will be public notice for a celebration of life service to be held at a later date in Burns. Wayne will be interred in the family burial spot at the Hilltop Memorial Cemetery in Nyssa. Wayne’s family has asked that in lieu of flowers, friends and acquaintances make donations to local organizations providing support and/or services to military veterans.