Wayne A. Block, Sr.

Passed away Thursday, October 17, 2024, with his family by his side. Wayne was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, on September 19, 1933, to the late George and Elizabeth (Boverhof) Block. After graduating from high school, Wayne joined the United States Navy to serve his country proudly. On February 13, 1953, Wayne married the love of his life, Alareka (Mejeur). Together they had three children. Wayne was a devout Christian, attending First Reformed Church of Portage for much of his life. In his free time, Wayne enjoyed creating his wood art and carving. After retiring, Wayne and Alareka spent many years wintering in Texas, and traveling the world.

Surviving Wayne are his children, Charlene (Robert) DeBoer, Wayne (Kristine) Block, Jr., Marcia (Chris) VandenOever; grandchildren, Jacob (Sarah) DeBoer, Tiffany (Ryan) Ridgley, Andrew (Lauren) Block, Katie (Aaron) Herrera, Stephen (Emily) VandenOever, Kenneth (Miranda) VandenOever; 19 great-grandchildren; brother, Roger Block; special friend, Lin Pierce; honorary children, Tracy (Allison) Pierce, Jason (Tina) Pierce; honorary grandchildren, Emme, Claire, and Tyler Pierce. Preceding him in passing are his parents; wife, Alareka (Mejeur); siblings, Marvin (Sandi) Block, Chuck (Lois) Block, Pearl (James) Brouwer, Harold (Pat) Block; sister-in-law, Connie Block.

Friends are welcome to visit the family from 4pm to 7pm, Monday, October 21, 2024, at Langeland Family Funeral Homes, 411 East Center Avenue, Portage, Michigan 49002. The funeral service will be the following day, Tuesday, October 22, 2024, 11am, at First Reformed Church of Portage, 7905 South Westnedge Avenue, Portage, Michigan 49002, with an hour of visitation prior to the service from 10am to 11am. Anyone is welcome to stay after the service for lunch provided by the family. Following lunch, a graveside service will take place at Mt. Ever Rest Memorial Park, South 3941 South Westnedge Avenue, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49008, at 2pm. A special thank you to everyone at The Vineyards Assisted Living for their loving and compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to The First Reformed Church of Portage, or Centrica Care Navigators 7100 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49009.