Wayne F. Ehlers, 83, passed away on February 27, 2026, in Lincoln, Nebraska. He was born August 15,1942, in Lincoln, Nebraska to Walter and Janice (Ireland) Ehlers.

Wayne lived for his grandchildren. His eyes lit up the moment they walked into the room, and he never missed an opportunity to make them feel endlessly loved and special. Among our most cherished memories are the summer days at the cabin when he patiently helped his grandkids hammer nails, hoist beams, and build a crooked but perfect treehouse—laughing the whole time at their wild ideas and proud of every wobbly board they added. Family holidays were his masterpiece: he and Linda filled the house with warmth, delicious food, silly stories, and so much laughter that it echoed long after the dishes were done. Wayne taught his family what love looks like in the quiet, steady way he showed up every single day—for his wife of 40 years, for his children, and especially for the little ones who called him Papa.

He and Linda shared a deep, lifelong partnership built on quiet devotion and mutual respect. Their love set the example for us all—showing that real family isn’t defined by blood, background, or past mistakes, but by the unbreakable commitment to show up for one another. No matter where anyone came from or what they had done, Papa welcomed them fully. When kids or grandkids stumbled—when trouble found them—he never wavered. He stood by them without hesitation, offering forgiveness, guidance, and fierce, unconditional support until they found their way again.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Linda Ehlers; children, Jeff Ehlers, Lynnette (Kris) Swanson, Wendy (Jeff) DeFreece, and Tom Day; brother Gary (Dorothy) Ehlers; grandchildren, Terran (Austin) Gore, Brody (Maddie) Day, Payton (Micah) Dostal, Chace (Nate) Sandoz, and Brandt Day and his significant other Gabi; great grandchild Kolson Sandoz; and numerous family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Janice Ehlers, and sister, Karen Ehlers.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, March 13th from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm at IBEW Local 265, 1409 Old Farm Road, Lincoln, NE 68512. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be donated to Capital Humane Society and St. Croix Hospice.