Wayne Edward Awtry, age 78, of McCook, NE, passed away peacefully in Imperial, NE on June 12, 2026.

Wayne was born on November 25, 1947, in McCook, NE to parents Gerald W. and Doris B. (Nelsen) Awtry. He graduated from McCook High School with the class of 1966.

After high school, Wayne proudly joined the Army on October 17, 1966. He was honorably discharged three years later, on October 16, 1969.

For his professional life, Wayne was a spray pilot for the McCook area.

Wayne enjoyed many hobbies: hunting and shooting sports, operating remote control airplanes, and building his cars. His favorite project car was a 1964 Chevy Chevell. He was a World War II history buff with remarkable expertise. He loved dogs and Wayne never hesitated to lend a hand.

Wayne was a member of the Memorial Methodist Church in McCook, NE.

Those left to celebrate Wayne’s life are his sister, Sandy (Dick) Foran of North Platte, NE; two nephews, Michael Fries and Joseph Awtry; niece, Dana Case; special friend, Elaine Wells of McCook, NE; and extended family and friends.

Wayne is preceded in death by his parents and brother Dennis Awtry.

Memorial contributions, in lieu of flowers, are suggested to the McCook Humane Society, PO Box 13, McCook, NE 69001.