Obituary of Israel Wayne Hynes

Israel Wayne Hynes

1950 – 2025

Israel Wayne Hynes of Corner Brook, Newfoundland, after a long and courageous battle with cancer, went home to be with the Lord on Christmas Day, 2025. He spent his final days at the Hospice of North Idaho in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, where he received compassionate and attentive care.

Wayne’s steadfast love and service to family and friends touched many lives in Newfoundland and throughout the United States, where he lived and worked for many years. Predeceased by his beloved wife Berna Jo “BJ” (2020), his parents Elizabeth and Sandy Hynes, and siblings Doris, Merle, and Max, Wayne is lovingly remembered by his children Jason (Jennifer), Denise, and Shelly; sisters Rona, Joan, Alice, Marina, and Audrey (Keith Kilpatrick); brothers Harvey (Betty), Gerald, and Don (Joyce); his grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, and his American family, the Gaylers.

Wayne will be remembered for his loyal friendships, generous heart, captivating storytelling, hearty laugh, and great sense of humour. His grandson Spencer fondly described him as someone who could make a joke out of just about any situation. 

A true hard worker, there was no basement he couldn’t dig out or “shack” he couldn’t raise. While working as a lift operator at Deer Valley Ski Resort in Park City, Utah, Wayne was named Lift Operator of the Year four years in a row, a testament to his dedication and strong work ethic.

He should also be remembered for his achievements in Cormack, Newfoundland, where his vision of developing a subdivision from densely forested land became a reality. Plans are underway for a small playground, “Wayne Park,” to be built there in his memory. 

Wayne was well known for his accordion playing and love of song, and had no trouble playing and singing a Newfoundland classic.

Above all, Wayne held unwavering hope in the Lord and often shared the Scripture that expressed his faith, quoting Titus 3:5:

“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us.”

Cremation has taken place in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, and a service and celebration of Wayne’s life will be held in Newfoundland at a later date in 2026.