Elton Wayne Chaney

Elton Wayne Chaney was born in his grandmother's home in Lindsay, CA on May 14, 1922. He passed away quietly in his sleep with family beside him Monday morning, January 5, 2015, at his Cottonwood Court home in Fresno. He was 92.

Wayne was vibrant, kind and good-natured. He loved life. Tall and handsome, he was a true gentleman in every sense of the word.

Wayne was raised on his family farm in San Joaquin, California. Carrying on the legacy started by his father, he lived and worked on the homeland for 91 years. In 1948, Wayne married the love of his life, Lola Jane Christie, whom he met in Bozeman, Montana while his parents were traveling to visit Lola's parents whom they had known for many years. In 1985, his beloved wife of 36 years died suddenly.

He served on assorted boards throughout the years and spent numerous years on both the Reclamation Board of the James Irrigation District and Tranquility Union High School Board. Wayne had a beautiful, natural singing voice. He sang for weddings and other events. Everybody loved his voice, and he was humbled when people he did not know asked him to sing for an event or wedding. He loved traveling and particularly enjoyed taking long, road trips to Idaho and Montana up through age 90. He and his cousin, Kepp, from Idaho took pleasure in visits up into Canada and Alaska along the Alcan Highway. One of his greatest joys was looking forward to his next trip visiting family and friends in California, Idaho, Missouri, Montana, and Wisconsin.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Thomas E. Griffin, M.D., for his great care of Wayne for over 30 years and his support during this difficult time. We also thank the staff at Cottonwood Court for their loving, supportive care and to St. Agnes Hospice for their compassionate care.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 36 years, Lola Jane Chaney; his parents, Riley and Savilla Chaney; two brothers, Glenn and George "Bud" Chaney.

He leaves behind the family he loved so much and who loved him dearly. His three children: Cathy Keller and her husband Dennis of Exeter, Larry Chaney and his wife Terri of Fresno, and Christie Chaney and her long-term companion Norm Nielson of San Diego. He also leaves numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; and many longtime friends near and far.

A Private Service will be held.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to your favorite charity.

Arrangements under the direction of Stephens & Bean Funeral Chapel, Fresno, CA.