Obituary of Wayne Lowell Tafs

Wayne Lowell Tafs, 80, of Proctor, MN passed away in his home, surrounded by family and loved ones on July 1st, 2019, after a long battle with cancer. Wayne was born in Duluth, MN on May 5th, 1939 to parents, Alfred and Ruby Tafs. Wayne attended Denfeld High School. Shortly after high School, he enlisted in the Army. After leaving the Army, Wayne served his country on the U.S.S. O’Hare for the US Navy. Wayne met Kathy Sullivan in December 1968 and they were married a year later. Wayne retired from the University of Minnesota, Duluth in 1997, after a 26 year career. Wayne enjoyed spending time with his family, working on models, building his model railroad and fishing, when he got the chance. He also enjoyed reading anything that had to do with airplanes, trains or ships. Wayne was a talented artist whether drawing, painting or detailing his models. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Larry (Mary); sister, Trudy Johnson (Dave). Wayne is survived by his wife, Kathy; sons, Jim (Kim) and Jason (Lyn); daughter, Lori (Chris Mercier); grandchildren, Amanda Strongitharm (Devin), Cody Mercier, Justin Tafs, Jessica Tafs, Bethany Mercier and Madison Tafs; great-grandchild, Adaleigh Strongitharm; brother, Bill; sister, Sherry Temke (Mark); and beloved pet, “Bugsy.” Visitation: 2 p.m. until the 3 p.m. Memorial Service, Saturday, July 13th at Cremation Society of Minnesota, 4100 Grand Ave, Duluth.