Leslie Wayne Harder

Leslie “Wayne” Harder lived and loved life for 89 full years. Born in Fort Peck, Montana, he later made Washington his lifelong home. Wayne was a devoted husband, father, Papa, and Great-Papa whose love and steady presence shaped the generations that followed him.

Wayne leaves behind his wife of 63 years, Carol Harder; his son Leslie Wayne Harder Jr. and wife Myrna; his daughters Christina “Tina” Harder and Heidi Harder. He is also survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom he adored: Nick and his wife Millie with great grands McKayla, Emmalin, and Maddie. Ashley with great-grands Rylee and Logan. Michael with great-grand Gabe. Hayley and her husband Olan with great-grands Evan, Elijah, and Elaina. Jessica and her husband Kyle with great-grands Kamden and Jace. Shane and his wife Caroline with great-grand Oliver.

When Wayne left this world, he was welcomed by his parents, his brother Rick, his sister Doris, and many beloved family members and friends who went before him.

Wayne was born in the small town of Fort Peck, Montana, and later moved to Washington where he spent most of his adult life in Pierce County. In 1955, he enlisted in the United States Air Force for an eight-year obligation. His service took him to Texas, Formosa (Taiwan), China, Korea, and Japan during the tense post-war years. He often shared stories of being shot at, surviving bitter cold in China—once even sleeping with a monkey for warmth—and being blown into the air by a massive military tire. With active conflict ending, he was honorably released earlier than expected.

Around 1962, Wayne began working at Atlas Foundry, starting what became a decades-long career welding large hot metal castings. After Wayne and Carol purchased their home on South Hill in Puyallup, he worked ten-hour days for an entire year to pay off the house—an example of his unwavering dedication to his family. Though he took on other jobs throughout life, the foundry remained his calling for over 40 years.

Thirteen years ago, Wayne and Carol moved to Lewis County to be closer to the Cowlitz River—his favorite fishing spot. There they enjoyed retirement surrounded by family, nature, and the great-grandchildren who brought him so much joy.

Two and a half years ago, doctors found a lung mass presumed to be cancer. Wayne chose not to pursue invasive tests or treatment. He was told his life expectancy would be three to four years, and he lived nearly every day of that time with grace and good spirits. In his final two months, he received hospice care at home, lovingly supported by his daughter Heidi, his wife Carol, his granddaughter Hayley, and an exceptional hospice team. Many loved ones visited, filling his final days with stories, laughter, and gratitude.

Wayne lived a long, full, and happy life—one marked by hard work, service, love, and family. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always cherished.