Wayne A. Ingalls, born on February 23, 1933, in Fraser, Iowa, passed away at home on September 21, 2023, in Kansas City, Missouri. He was 90 years old.

Wayne’s childhood was marked by various towns in Iowa, and as an adult he made his home in Illinois. After serving two years in the US Army, he pursued his passion for education, earning his undergraduate degree in education from Olivet Nazarene College and later obtaining his master’s degree from Bradley University.

Dedicated to the field of education, Wayne’s early career began as School Principal, in the Elmira and Sparland, IL School Districts. In 1965, he accepted the School Principal role for the Creve Coeur, IL School District where he introduced the Head Start Program. Wayne was promoted to the position of Superintendent of Schools before moving to serve in the same role in the Cerro Gordo, Illinois School District between 1983 and 1993.

Even after retiring from Illinois, Wayne continued his commitment to education, serving in similar roles for the Stratford and Hartland School Districts, in Vermont. After leaving Vermont and returning to Illinois, he continued his passion and worked as Interim Superintendent for several school districts around the state.

Outside of his professional life, Wayne was known for his passion for the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team. He enjoyed cheering for his favorite team, rarely missing a televised game. He also enjoyed spending time driving and exploring new areas, making the most of life’s adventures.

Wayne leaves behind a loving family, including his wife of 57 years, Joyce, and their children, Brian Ingalls of Landenberg, Pennsylvania and Michelle Solomon of Kansas City, Missouri, five grandchildren, brothers, James Ingalls, and sister Carol Ingalls. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers John, Richard, David, and sisters, Virginia, Sharon, and Bonnie. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In memory of Wayne Arnold Ingalls, his family requests that those who wish to pay their respects consider donating to a local educational charity or the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation in his honor.