Wayne Edgar Gann

Was called from this life on April 2, 2017. Born on May 20, 1920 in Jefferson County, Tennessee to Charles C. and Joel Swann Gann. A proud United States Marine Corps veteran, he served in World War II in the Pacific arena including Guadalcanal and the Solomon Islands. In 1944, Wayne married his sweetheart, Ruby Jean Gault in East Tennessee. Upon returning to civilian life, Wayne and Jean lived in Indiana before moving to New Mexico and later to Tucson in 1969. He is survived by his children, Susanne Bonal, Tony Gann (Dena), Donna Woodberry (Jack), and Mona Bush; grandchildren, Jesi Woodberry, Jonathan Woodberry, Lisa Gann, Kimberly Voglesang Beal (Jeff), three great grandchildren and sisters Ernestine Johnson and Camilla Shoop (Ed). He is predeceased by his wife of over 66 years, Ruby Jean; his grandson, Keith Riley Bush; his brothers, Charles Gann, Lee Gann, and Samuel Gann; and sister Mildred Bailey. Our deepest gratitude goes to the Southern Arizona Veteran’s Hospital for its excellent care of our father. Graveside Services will be held on Friday, April 7, 2017 at 1:30 p.m. at East Lawn Palms Cemetery, 5801 East Grant Road, Tucson, AZ. Arrangements by East Lawn Palms Mortuary.

Wayne, or Grandpa as I referred to him, was a man of few words, but had an impactful and peaceful presence. He loved the beauty of the Southwest and was highly skilled in cacti cultivation. He loved all creatures and established a type of avian sanctuary in the backyard for local birds, where he would sit with the dogs and watch them feast at his birdseed Fill-up stations. His sense of humor was sharp and quick, and if you weren't paying attention, you might miss his witty retorts. He loved to read and was a fan of political mystery and gumshoe detective work.

He was the most humble man I’ve ever met. He was hard working and steady and he provided his family with a sturdy and loving foundation that will endure the sadness of saying goodbye. We loved him more than we can put into words, but his legacy of kindness and integrity lives on. In the sweetness of a hummingbird flitting by to get a drink, in the fragrant grapefruit blossoms in the world’s best back yard, and in the Gann family hearts, he and Grandma are still here. He taught us how to be resilient and live lives to be proud of no matter the circumstance. Now that he is resting, reunited with his sweetheart, we are reminded not to cry, but to carry on and be kind. Now have a cup of tea, put on some bluegrass, and take a nice nap. Also, feed the birds and don’t forget the dogs.

Arrangements under the direction of East Lawn Palms Mortuary, Tucson, AZ.