Hartlen, John “Wayne” – It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Wayne Hartlen, of Fletchers Lake on May 8, 2023, at the age of 80. Wayne passed away peacefully surrounded by family in Dartmouth General Hospital.
Wayne will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 53 years, Zelda (Erskine); son, Ryan (Kim); grandson, Luke; brothers, Eric (Joan) Hartlen, and Greg (Lee) Hartlen along with nieces, nephews, cousins, many friends, and the community of St. John’s United Church. He was predeceased by his parents, Eric and Muriel (Cane) Hartlen.
Wayne grew up in Bedford and Fletchers Lake, the oldest of three boys. In 1975 he graduated with his Bachelor of Divinity from the Atlantic School of Theology and was ordained by the United Church of Canada. He served pastoral charges in Welsford, NB, and Woodside Imperoyal Dartmouth. He also completed an internship in chaplaincy at Dalhousie and Mount Saint Vincent Universities. In 1984 Wayne earned his Masters of Social Work and followed his passion to help others working for Children’s Aid. He then completed a year of postgraduate study at the North Shore Counseling Centre in BC, after which he spent time with the Stratton Project, Crosby House, and in private practice. In 2015 Wayne unexpectedly had his leg amputated above the knee due to vascular complications, which although changed his life, did not change his resolve or positive outlook. In 2022 he was diagnosed with vascular dementia. He was a character. And he was memorable - you generally didn’t forget meeting him. He was an extrovert and thoroughly enjoyed meeting new people. His smile was constant and his laugh easily identifiable in a crowd. He was an avid reader, sports enthusiast, loved the outdoors - camping, canoeing, fires by the lake, and spent many happy moments at Berwick Camp each summer. In recent years his favorite pastime was doing “kid things” with his grandson, Luke. His sense of humor was larger than life and he was quick to speak his mind but was also a great listener.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the many healthcare professionals who cared for Wayne over the course of his journey in recent years.
A celebration of life will be held at St. John’s United Church, 3360 Highway 2 in Fall River, Monday, May 15th at 11 a.m. with reception to follow.
Cremation has taken place.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Alzheimer Society, The War Amps or charity of choice.
A message of condolence for the family may be left by posting your comment as a guest in the area below.
