Wayne C. Dahring

Wayne C. Dahring

Age 82, of Dowagiac, passed away on January 24, 2022. He was born on March 27, 1939 in St. Joseph, Michigan; son of Chester and Marie (neé Peterson) Dahring. Wayne graduated from Berrien Springs High School in Berrien Springs, Michigan; class of 1957. He obtained a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Lake Michigan College.

Wayne began his career with Clark Equipment Company. He also worked for Heath Company and many years for Bristol Industries up to retirement. His passion was music. Wayne played the guitar, banjo, and many other instruments. He founded KD Productions in the 1970’s. Wayne promoted and staged for several notable acts including REO Speedwagon, Andy Gibbs, Rush and others. He was also a song writer for his personal pleasure.
Wayne was a big western fan; his favorite star was John Wayne. Living his childhood dream he starred in his own dependent film, “The Last Real Cowboy”. His love of Westerns led him to collect Western memorabilia including period original and reproduction firearms.

Wayne enjoyed fishing and loved to hunt. He and his father would travel all over to go deer hunting. Wayne was an avid gun collector who was taught at a young age to respect guns. He was dedicated to his craft and devoted to his hobbies.

Wayne is survived by his children, Kirk (Kim) Dahring, Michele (Jim) Spiker, and Brad (Kathleen) Dahring; his sisters, Beverly Stover, Shirley Hoag, Patricia Sedgwick, and Janice Ruthsatz; and 8 grandchildren. Also survived by Gino Chang who Wayne raised as his own and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Wayne will be laid to rest at Spring Run Cemetery in Royalton Township, Michigan alongside his parents on Saturday, May 28, 2022 at 11am. A celebration of life will be held immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Tawny K. Dahring Foundation supporting cancer research and comfort care and sent to 49411 Waterstone Estates Circle, Northviile MI 48168.