Kenneth Wayne Viar, Sr.

Kenneth Wayne Viar, Sr., known as Wayne, embarked on his greatest adventure on January 28, 2024, at the age of 80. He was the beloved husband of Nancy Lynn Herrmann Viar. Born in our nation's capital on September 12, 1943, to the late Beulah Lee Via Viar and Murray Calvin Viar; Wayne was preceded in death by his cherished brothers, Calvin Lee Viar and William "Billy" Randall Viar; and a sister, Grace Carson Viar Shipp Lambert. In addition to his wife, survivors include his cherished brother, Jeffery "J.C." Clark Viar (Anita), 77, of Virginia Beach; two children; three granddaughters; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Wayne, or "The Captain," as he was fondly called by many, was a faithful husband, father, and friend. His immediate family includes, daughter, Peggy Lynn Viar Powers and her daughters, April Lynn Powers and Caroline Gatling Powers Alvarez (Eli); and son, Kenneth Wayne Viar, Jr. (Heather) and their daughter, Kenslee Grace Viar.

Wayne grew up in Chesterfield, VA, lived in Colonial Beach, VA, and St. Augustine, Florida. St. Augustine inspired Wayne's love of fishing and he later returned to Chester. On May 8, 1964, when he married the love of his life, Nancy Herrmann. Wayne was the ultimate catch for nearly six decades. He found his niche with the Union Boilermakers and began his apprenticeship in 1964. As a proud, long-standing member of Boilermakers Local Lodge #45 in Richmond, Virginia, for nearly 60 years, Wayne was known for his sturdy work ethic and was as reliable as the structures he helped create.

Wayne's other gig when he wasn't Boilermaking, was commercial fishing and crabbing. Also known as "Grandaddy" he was the man of many trades, but fishing was his lifetime hobby. Obtaining his Captain's License through the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, he shared his love of fishing and donated his time by being a member of The Virginia Angler's Club where he participated in the "Take a Kid Fishing" program through the Virginia Home for Boys and Girls. He also participated in many of the Virginia Marine Resource Commission's Virginia Saltwater Fishing Tournaments.

Wayne crafted a life as rich and varied as the soil he so loved to tend. He cast a wide net of joy up and down the East Coast from Virginia Beach, VA, to Port Charlotte, FL, and parts in between such as Kure Beach, NC. Reeling in friends with his unique way of spreading sunshine and staying positive, which was contagious, those friends will carry on his zest for life. With his boat docked, the tackle box now closed, his garden tools neatly hung, and his woodworking projects now complete, Wayne leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a treasure trove of canned goods. While some have gone ahead to set up camp, he leaves plenty of family and friends to share the tales of his exploits.

Wayne spent his last days at St. Francis Hospital in Midlothian, Virginia. The family is grateful to the ICU doctors and nurses and health care staff there. The family also thanks Dr. Damian Brezinski, of Island Cardiology, in Carolina Beach, North Carolina. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at St. John's Episcopal Church, 12201 Richmond Street, Chester, VA 23831. Immediately following the service, will be a celebration of life at the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers Local Lodge 45, 8930 Pams Ave., Richmond, Virginia 23237, where stories of his legendary fish that didn't get away and his prize-winning tomatoes will be shared. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Boilermakes Local Lodge 45 survivors benefit fund, in honor of Wayne. The family is being served by the Chester Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. Online condolences may be conveyed to the family at www.jtmorriss.com

Wayne's departure may seem like the end of a great fishing trip, but for those who were touched by his spirit, the stories, and memories will keep the campfire burning for years to come. Keep your lines tight and hearts open, just as Wayne would have wanted.