Wayne Gerald Vedquam, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished friend, died on May 26, 2026, at the age of 88.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, June 3, at St. Anne Roman Catholic Church, 1321 Braman Ave., Bismarck, with a visitation being held one hour prior to the mass.

Burial will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Bismarck.

Born on October 12, 1937, in Landa, North Dakota, Wayne was the second son of Julius and Elsie Vedquam. Throughout his life, Wayne embodied the values of kindness, generosity, and an unyielding spirit of love for his family and community.

Wayne attended the Landa country school near his home through 8th grade, then stayed with his aunt in Bottineau, North Dakota, where he graduated from Bottineau High School in 1955. He furthered his education at the North Dakota School of Forestry, now known as Dakota College at Bottineau, where he earned an associate degree in accounting. His commitment to learning and adapting was evident throughout his life, especially in his career where he embraced technological advancements with enthusiasm.

In 1959, Wayne answered the call of duty and served honorably in the U.S. Army until 1962, spending two years in Japan at the 12th United States Army Security Agency Field Station in Chitose, Hokkaido. His time in the military was marked by dedication and service, traits that he carried into his civilian life.

Upon returning home, Wayne embarked on a career that saw him as a vital part of several companies in Bismarck, North Dakota. From making blueprints for the underground missile silo project with Astro Reproductions to his roles in various accounting positions, Wayne was known for his work ethic and adaptability, especially as he mastered new computer technologies well into his 80s.

On October 22, 1966, Wayne married the love of his life, Kerry Joan Boucher, in Thorne, North Dakota. Their union was a testament to true marital commitment, lasting 23 beautiful years. Together, they raised three children in Bismarck, instilling in them values of love, resilience, and dedication. Wayne's love for Kerry was unwavering, particularly evident as he stood by her side during her health challenges.

Known for his warm smile and welcoming nature, Wayne enjoyed his coffee time with friends at Kroll's Kitchen and made everyone around him feel valued. His ability to listen, his gentle affirmations, and his demonstrations of love with attending sports or school activities, playing card games, going to the zoo, made special memories. He might not always say I love you, but you always knew you were loved - Grandpa Wayne's "yep" became the family code for "I love you, too." His grandchildren fondly remember him as the coolest guy in Bismarck, a testament to his loving and nurturing spirit.

A devoted family man, Wayne found immense joy in being surrounded by his loved ones. He is survived by his daughters Jean Vedquam (Ron Goldade) and Joan (Paul) Turek, and his daughter-in-law Stephanie (Shawn) Mittlestadt. He leaves behind grandchildren Amber (Jared) Arlien, Alicia Streyle (Austin Ketterling), Jake Streyle (Sarah Huft), Sarah (Camden) Berka, Logan Vedquam, Luke Turek (Eleni Galvan), Christine Turek, and Maxwell Vedquam, along with great-grandchildren Kade, Blake, and Mika Arlien. Wayne's family was his pride and joy, and he shared countless cherished moments with them, from coaching sports to leading canoe trips with his grandchildren. He faithfully attended church at St. Anne's until health concerns kept him from going in the last year. Going to church and then to breakfast and a Sunday drive was a special family time.

Wayne was preceded in death by his beloved wife Kerry, his children Anne and Aaron, his parents Julius and Elsie, his brothers Everett and Elroy, his sister Eloise Burckhard, his brother-in-law James Boucher.

Wayne Gerald Vedquam leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. His memory will forever be cherished by those whose lives he touched.