Wayne C. Blikre

Born on June 29, 1945, in Fargo, North Dakota, Wayne’s life was defined by his generosity, charm, and wicked wit. He rose from a humble upbringing in rural North Dakota to become a highly respected executive in a multibillion-dollar global corporation.

He is survived by his wife Kenda Avery, ex-wife Prudy Parsons, daughter Jessica Hoffman, and son Jared Blikre. He will also be dearly missed by his loving brother Steve Blikre, Steve's wife Barbara (Barb) and their children and grandchildren.

After earning a Bachelor of Arts from Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, Wayne served his country with distinction in the Army's military intelligence unit for two years in Vietnam, where he was awarded the Bronze Star. Afterwards, Wayne embarked on a rewarding career in human relations crossing multiple industries. He began in labor relations in the railroad industry in the early 1970s in Chicago and later in Washington D.C., where he and Prudy celebrated the birth of their first child Jared. Wayne then switched to banking in 1978 and moved his family to Miami, where he welcomed the birth of his darling daughter, Jessica.

Wayne ultimately found his true calling in the travel industry at Amadeus Global Travel Distribution. Here, he met his beloved Kenda, with whom he embarked upon a life of love, laughter, and adventure. Wayne retired in April 2012 as Vice President of Human Resources for Amadeus North America. His colleagues remember him as a dedicated professional who was always committed to “doing the right thing.” According to the hundreds of employees he worked with, Wayne was a true gentleman and the "heart & soul" of the company.

A man of eclectic interests, Wayne enjoyed ballroom dancing, reading spy novels, fast cars, friendly waitresses, and rollerblading on South Beach. A confirmed Lutheran, Wayne found solace in his faith throughout his life.

Wayne considered his outstanding achievements to be his contributions to the many employees he assisted throughout the years, his two exceptional children, and last but not least, his successful relationship of 30+ years with his redheaded wife.

A Celebration of Life in Wayne’s honor is set for Monday, May 1, 2023, from 6 PM – 8 PM at his favorite local hang out, Hoover Valley Café.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider a donation to an animal or veterans’ charity of your choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ClementsWilcoxBurnet.com for the Blikre family.