Wayne L. Hersel

Wayne Hersel, 79, of Wenatchee, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and the many lives he touched throughout his life. Wayne was born on December 7, 1946, in Wenatchee, Washington, to Julius Hersel and Petra Holl. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Duwayne Hersel, Alfy Hersel, Norman Hersel, and Jerry Hersel. On February 3, 1968, Wayne married the love of his life, Gerry Lawhead. Together they built a strong and loving family that remained the center of Wayne’s life for nearly 60 years. Wayne proudly served his country in the United States Army and Army Reserves from August 1, 1966, through October 30, 1971. Following his military service, he worked for Alcoa for 30 years before retiring. After retirement, Wayne continued dedicating his life to helping others. He worked as a drug and alcohol counselor, helping many people through addiction and recovery. He later worked with NCESD, where he counseled and encouraged students, helping many young people graduate and move forward in life. Wayne loved coaching sports and mentoring kids throughout his life. He enjoyed spending time not only with his own children, but also with their friends, often sharing wisdom, encouragement, and life lessons. Wayne was known for his kindness, humor, patience, and willingness to help anyone who needed him. A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Wayne lived a life centered on faith, family, and service. Later in life, he became active with NCWVSV (North Central Washington Vets Serving Vets), where he found joy in supporting fellow veterans — whether helping with their needs, lending an ear, or sharing a game of dominoes or cribbage. Wayne is survived by his loving wife, Gerry Hersel; his children Eric Hersel and wife Tina Hersel, Corey Hersel, Tyler Hersel and wife Nicole Hersel, Nathan Hersel and Morgonne Davis, Natalie Egly and husband Daniel Egly, and Brad Hersel and wife Leslie Hersel. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren Ethan Hersel, Jace Hersel, Jacob Hersel, Taylor Campbell, Kobe Hersel, Skylen Hersel, Gabriel Hersel, Caleb Hersel, Ireland Hersel, Crew Hersel, Pierce Egly, Lucas Egly, Isabel Rodriguez, Jordis Rubio, Eliannah Rubio, Olivia Hersel, Carmen Hersel, and Vivian Hersel, as well as three great-grandchildren. Wayne will be remembered for his servant’s heart, strong faith, love for family, dedication to veterans and youth, and the countless lives he impacted through coaching, counseling, mentoring, and friendship. Funeral services will be held on May 28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1621 Maiden Ln Wenatchee. Cemetery services will follow the funeral. Arrangements are under the care of Heritage Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.

Wayne L. Hersel

December 7, 1946 - May 19, 2026