Wayne Richard Warry, 72, of Hermantown, passed away on August 4, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Wayne was born in Hamilton, Ontario, on September 30, 1953, to William (Bill) and Dorothy Warry. Growing up in East Hamilton, Wayne held fond childhood memories of playing sports, especially street hockey, spending time outside, and summers spent on Lake Rosseau. Wayne earned his B.A. (1975) and M.A (1976) from McMaster University before completing his doctoral studies in anthropology at the Australian National University Research School of Pacific Studies (1983), where he spent two years living among the Chuave in Simbu Province, in the Central Highlands of Papua New Guinea. Wayne was a professor, researcher, and advocate for over 35 years.

Wayne enjoyed listening to music, reading, traveling, golfing, and watching almost any sport. He treasured the time spent with his family, especially when at the cottage on Georgian Bay. Being out on the boat or at the McCoy Islands was a favorite part of his time there. Watching his children grow up, collecting their rocks, showing off their fishing skills, and seeing them happy and having their own adventures in life was his greatest joy. Wayne and his wife Kristen were inseparable, whether at home, at work, traveling the world, or just holding hands while watching television; they did it together. Nothing made him prouder or brought him more happiness than his family. Wayne will be remembered by most for his quest for deep knowledge, sense of humor, advocacy for Indigenous rights, passion for learning, determination, loyalty, holding true to his values, and his love for his family. He was a trusted friend, a reliable and supportive colleague, and a loving and generous father and husband. His strength, love, wisdom and wit were counted on by many.

Wayne is survived by his loving wife of 19 years, Kristen Jacklin; and his two children, Lilah and David, who loved him every bit as much as he loved them. He will be deeply missed by his brother and sister-in-law, Brian and Cathy Warry; sister-in-law, Kathie Jacklin; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Gail and John Jacklin; nieces and nephews, Adam, Andrew, Ben, and Frannie; best friend, Gordon Milne; and other friends and colleagues near and far.

Per Wayne’s wishes, there will be no memorial service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a cancer charity, a kind act toward a stranger, or simply helping a neighbor in need. Think of him often.