Wayne grew up in Beach Grove, Texas, graduating from Texarkana Arkansas High School in 1981. He graduated from Victoria Police Department academy in November 1986. Wayne graduated from the DPS recruit Class of A-90. Wayne was a trooper for the Texas Department of Public Safety for 23 years, working in numerous towns in the Great State of Texas. He retired in 2013.

Wayne enjoyed grilling, dancing, playing dominoes, and spending time in the great outdoors. His hobbies included playing baseball, softball, golf, fishing and spending time with family and friends. His favorite thing was bragging on his family. He will be most remembered for his gift of gab, his tall tales, his handshakes and his constant smile.

Wayne was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, DPS Roadrunners, Yoakum Volunteer Fire Department, a former KC member, local election official, and a church maintenance committee member. After his retirement, he kept very busy in the community. He was a great neighbor and always helping someone out. He made sure to keep in touch with his DPS community as he was very proud of his service.

Wayne is survived by his wife Brenda Henkes of Columbus; daughters Alayna (Jeremy) Kutach of Hallettsville, Ashtyn Henkes of Yoakum, Alexandra Henkes of College Station and Casie House of Waco; son Jay House of Columbus; grandchildren Noah, Wyatt, Dawson, Graham, Autumn, Jarrin, Kyle and Macie; mother Julia Ann Smith of New Braunfels; mother-in-law Doris Gorman of Columbus; brothers Herman (Geana) Henkes of New Braunfels and Walter Todd (Jenny) Henkes of Riverside, CA; brother-in-law Jack (Pat) Gorman of Angleton, Scott (Jackie) Gorman of Bay City, and Brent (Patty) Gorman of Columbus and beloved pets, Chase and Betsy Lou.

Wayne was preceded in death by his father Alois Pete Henkes and his father-in-law Jack Gorman, Sr.

Visitation was on Monday, Jan. 29, 2024 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus, Texas. Funeral service was on Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024 at 2 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church with Pastor Alan Kethan officiating. Visitation at church was from 1 to 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to your local volunteer fire department or the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be given at www.hennekefuneralhome.com.

Retired Trooper Henkes 10-42 10-7 “Yaw watch your 6”