Wayne Freeman Stanfield

Wayne Freeman Stanfield, 87, of Spencer, Indiana passed away January 4, 2020. He was born November 7, 1932 in Indianapolis, Indiana to Herman and Lettie Stanfield.

He was a 1950 graduate of George Washington High School. Wayne was drafted into the United States Army on February 27, 1953 where served during the Korean Conflict. He claimed “President Truman cordially invited me to join and go to Korea” showing his humor would not falter. He earned the National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Ribbon, United Nations Service Medal, and Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation. Our nation is forever thankful for his service. Upon returning to civilian life,  he earned his Masters in mathematics through Butler University where he used his knowledge to work for the Indiana State Board of Health. Wayne met the love of his life, Noriko Sweetheart, in 1989 through a mutual friend.  They were married shortly after in July of 1989 and spent nearly 31 beautiful years together; they remain deeply in love at the time of his passing.  Wayne was a member of St. Jude the Apostle in Spencer, Indiana where he was a member of the choir, which brought him much joy! He was baptized into the Catholic faith in 2011 at St. John the Apostle in Bloomington, Indiana. He was a man of many interests. He loved playing chess and pool and always maintained steadfast discipline. He also enjoyed fishing, weight lifting, swimming, and was quite the graceful ice skater. His passing leaves an empty space in the hearts of those who who were lucky enough to meet him; he was truly one of a kind.

Wayne is preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Lettie, as well as his siblings. Surviving to cherish his memory are loving wife, Noriko Sweetheart; children, Jeff (Sharon) Stanfield and Todd (Esther) Stanfield; as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

All are welcome to visit Wednesday, January 8 from 9-10 AM at Flanner Buchanan – Floral Park, 425 N. Holt Road, Indianapolis, IN 46222. Funeral services will take place at 10 AM. Wayne will be laid to rest at Floral Park Cemetery immediately following services. A memorial mass will be held Saturday, January 11 at 10 AM at St. Jude the Apostle, 300 W Hillside Ave, Spencer, IN 47460.

Donations may be made in Wayne’s honor to the following organizations: Owen County EMS (https://ems.owencounty.in.gov), Cataract Volunteer Fire Department (9582 Hi Ridge TRL, Spencer, IN 47460), and St. Jude the Apostle (PO Box 317, Spencer, Indiana 47460).