Born on Sept. 9, 1951, to Joseph and Vioda Fowler, Wayne was a man of diverse interests. His first career was in journalism and photography. Wayne worked at
newspapers in Hollywood, FL, Benton, KY, and locally for The Voice. He graduated from Spalding University in 1988, with a Master’s degree in Education, and taught middle and
high school for many years. Wayne found his true calling after a mission trip to Jamaica in1994. Hand in Hand Ministries was born and became the work of his life.
As founder, Wayne traveled to Jamaica, Belize, Nicaragua, and Eastern Kentucky in his effort to provide food, housing, healthcare and education to the poorest of the poor. Without
Wayne’s diligent effort and consummate vision, Hand in Hand Ministries would not have
been possible.
Wayne’s life adventures were shared with his wife, Sharon (Smythe), over 42 years. They
were the loves of each others’ lives and truly embodied the vow, “in sickness and in
health.” They had two children Alyssa Hoeft (Rob) and Joseph; four grandchildren, Oliver,
Elliott, Ruby and Baby Hoeft; and his furry child, Gizmo.
Wayne (’69) received the Trinity High School Peace Medal and Mark David Schwarzer
Humanitarian Award. Being a novelist and published poet was one of his proudest
accomplishments. His love of books, movies, and great music enriched his life and the
lives of everyone who knew him. He will eternally cheer on the Boston Red Sox and UL
Cardinals.
Remaining to cherish his memory are his siblings, Don Fowler, Barbara Dukes (Harold),
Father Joseph Fowler, Mike Fowler (Donna), Janice Kelly (Charles), Denny Fowler, and
Lorrie Peake (Drew); and numerous cherished nieces and nephews.
Your greatest gift to Wayne was to have lunch with him at August Moon for some ginger
peach iced tea and good conversation. His generous spirit and love of life was his gift to
us. Thank you to the many friends who provided enormous support to Wayne during these
final months and weeks. , Special thanks to M.D. Anderson, Dr. Tannir and staff. In lieu of
flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to Hand in Hand Ministries/Jamaica, 2225
Steier Lane, Louisville, KY 40218.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.
Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.”
His funeral Mass will be held at noon on Tuesday, March 8, 2016 at St. Bernard Catholic
Church, 7500 Tangelo Drive, with burial to follow in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be
noon – 7 PM Sunday and 1 – 7 PM Monday at Ratterman & Sons Funeral Home, 3800
Bardstown Road.
Online condolences may be directed to www.ratterman.com
Please pray for Wayne's eternal rest and joy in the Kingdom, and comfort and rest for his family and friends.
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