Wayne Richard Passage

Wayne R. Passage, 86, of Camillus, passed away Saturday after a valiant battle with Parkinson’s Disease and a recent stroke. He entered through the gates of Heaven where he’s riding his Harley Fat Boy with the angels. Wayne was a lifelong resident of the west side of Syracuse and a graduate of Solvay High School. He started his career in the automotive industry as a parts manager at Bill Rapp Pontiac, where he worked for many years. He then continued his career at various other dealerships before retiring in 2000 from Fox Chrysler, after serving as parts manager for 20 years.

In his early years, Wayne was known as the cool guy with the coolest cars and was the most admired dad in the neighborhood. His greatest joy was his children, Candy and Mike.

A lifelong motorcycle enthusiast, Wayne loved going on long rides with his friends and rarely missed a motorcycle event, enjoying the opportunity to meet new people along the way. However, he felt most at home and had the most laughs with his inner circle of friends.

Wayne was an avid collector of Hot Wheels, motorcycle models, and anything related to Harley Davidson. If it had a motor and wheels, it fascinated him. A naturally gifted mechanic, Wayne could repair anything broken and had even built a few cars in his younger years. Despite his Parkinson's diagnosis, he adapted and continued to live life to the fullest. He was his own person, always confident in himself and convinced that his way was usually the best way.

Wayne was predeceased by his parents, Raymond and Erdine Passage.  

Surviving are his loving, devoted wife and soulmate of 44 years, the former Joan Meier; daughter, Candayce (Gary) Shaw; son, Michael; brother, Steve (Diane); five grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

To celebrate Wayne’s life, relatives and friends are invited to gather on Friday, June 7, 2024, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus. A funeral service will follow at the funeral home.

Wayne will be laid to rest in Greenlawn Cemetery, Warners.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to HumaneCNY, 4915 W. Taft Rd., Liverpool, NY 13088.