Published May 17, 2019
MELROSE — M. Wayne Preston, 78, died at Melrose-Wakefield Hospital on May 8, 2019.
Wayne was born in Moberly, Missouri on June 20, 1940 to the late John and Cleo (Kribbs) Preston. He was raised in Moberly, graduated from Moberly High School, from Moberly Junior College, where he excelled in basketball and baseball, and then entered the U.S. Navy. Mr. Preston served his country with pride and was in the Navy during the Cuban Missile Crisis, stationed in Guantanamo Bay in Cuba. After the service, Wayne lived in various parts of the United States and Massachusetts before settling in Lynn in 1985.
Mr. Preston graduated from Peterson School of Engineering in Boston and started his career as a building engineer. He worked as a building engineer for numerous large office buildings in Boston; he worked for the Lundgren Management Company for many years and for several condominium complexes, including the Fenmore Condos in the Fenway section of Boston.
Wayne had a wonderful personality and a great sense of humor. He was a prankster and was extremely generous. He would literally give his shirt off his back, which he did one day to a homeless person in Boston who needed clothing. Mr. Preston was loved by all who came across his path especially all those that lived in the buildings he managed. The residents would give him numerous gifts and even ask him to take care of their children from time to time.
Wayne loved making breakfast for family and friends and would be requested to do so. He loved freshwater fishing, camping in New Hampshire and spending time with family and friends around the fire. Mr. Preston was an avid coin collector, a Boston sports fan, was a Celtic, Red Sox and Patriots fan and would root for the Bruins which is his wife Laura’s favorite team.
He had an extensive knowledge of history and could challenge anyone to “Who Wants to be a Millionaire” or “Jeopardy.” Wayne also had an extensive knowledge when it came to classic cars, especially muscle cars. He and his wife Laura enjoyed taking his 1968 Chevy to car shows. He could point out when cars were built, what engines they had in them and if the right markings were being displayed on the cars in the show or not.
He will be forever missed for being a great father to his three boys and his great personality and genuine kindness to everyone.
Wayne was the beloved husband of 44 years to Laura M. (Healey) Preston. Loving father of Dana C. Preston of Calif., David W. Preston and Daniel S. Preston both of Georgetown. Caring brother of Ann Steinkamp of Kansas, Donald Preston of Missouri and the late Edward Preston. Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews and friends.
Visitation was held at the Gately Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 14. Relatives and friends were respectfully invited to attend. Funeral services and interment were private. Memorial contributions may be made in Wayne’s name to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 230 East Ohio Street, Suite 500, Chicago, Illinois 60611. To send a message of condolence please visit www.gatelyfh.com.
