Wayne Calvin Blacker

Wayne Calvin Blacker passed peacefully on March 30, 2025 at the age of 90 with his family at his side.

Wayne was born July 24, 1934 in Vernon, CO to Fern and Fred Blacker. He had one sibling, his older brother Glenn. He attended multiple country schools in the Vernon area and graduated from Wray High School where he excelled in football and baseball.

Upon graduation from high school, he enrolled in North Eastern Community College in Sterling, CO where he earned his associate degree. While attending, he played fullback and placekicker for the football team and even received a nickname for his kicking and academics, being called “The Educated Toe”.

After graduation, Wayne enlisted in the U.S. Army. After basic training, he was stationed in Heidelberg, Germany for the next four years. These four years proved monumental because he met one Rosemarie L Hummel, affectionately known by all as Rosie or Gogo. She was the love of his life and his wife for the next 68 years.

In 1959 Wayne and Rosie made an adventurous journey back to the U.S.A. and landed in Fort Morgan, Colorado. He was employed by Holsum Bread Company soon to be followed by a job with the Keebler Cookie Company which took the Blacker family to Montrose. Wayne worked for Keebler for the next 30 years, retiring in 2004.

Wayne had a number of interests and hobbies throughout his life. He loved attending hundreds of sporting events being played by his kids and grandkids. He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his friends and family. He was also a dedicated, passionate collector. Items of special interest included coins, tools, vintage gas pumps,and railroad memorabilia, but his true passion was anything relating to Texaco. Many people fondly remember him as “the Texaco guy.”

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Fern, his brother Glenn, and a daughter, Marion.

Wayne is survived by his wife Rose; daughter Kathe (Abel) Velarde; son Fred (John) Blacker; son Jeff (Jessica) Blacker; grandchildren Amy (Brian) Pettis, Holly (Dante) Tripi, Emily (Tanner) Broughton, Brandon Blacker, Aubrey Blacker; great-grandchildren Rhyas, Baxley, Raina, Summit, Tucker, and Charlie.

Wayne’s most endearing quality was one of kindness, and anyone who knew him would certainly agree. He had a calm, peaceful demeanor and a perpetual smile. His innocent wit and sense of humor brightened the days for all of us. His honesty and sincerity found the best in people, and brought the best out in people. He never wavered in his unselfishness. The needs of family and his friends always outweighed those of his own. He will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in the name of Wayne Blacker can be given to Hope West. 725 S. 4th St. Montrose CO 81401