32 Metcalfe Street West | Strathroy, Ontario N7G 1M6 | Phone: (519) 245-1023 | Email: office@dennings.ca
Tribute Wall
Wednesday
18
December
Visitation
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Dennings of Strathroy
32 Metcalfe St. W.
Strathroy, Ontario, Canada
519-245-1023
Thursday
19
December
Funeral Service
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Thursday, December 19, 2024
Denning's of Strathroy
32 Metcalfe St. W
Strathroy, Ontario, Canada
Thursday
19
December
Interment
12:30 pm - 1:00 pm
Thursday, December 19, 2024
St. Ann's Anglican Church Cemetery
2276 Egremont Dr, Strathroy, ON N7G 3H6
Strathroy, Ontario, Canada
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Ellen Cavell posted a condolence
Friday, December 20, 2024
I met Chef Wayne many years ago at Compass. He was always cracking jokes, making everyone feel at home. Just a lovely human being all around. You will be missed Wayne.
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Cheryl Dunn posted a condolence
Thursday, December 19, 2024
I have fond memories of Wayne from his Delta days. His smile would light up the room and his laugh was so very infectious. My deepest condolences to his family.
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Elizabeth Ede posted a condolence
Thursday, December 19, 2024
With shock and a heavy heart I learned of Chef Wayne's passing. My deepest condolences to his children, extended family and loved ones.
It has been a pleasure to work with Chef Wayne for many years at Compass, creating menu solutions and supporting our customer. I always looked forward to our regular update calls; his bellowing laugh, food industry gossip and hearing the stories of his kids. I appreciated his love for good food, and creative problem solving with a positive but no-nonsense attitude. He will be missed.
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Ron Oswald posted a condolence
Thursday, December 19, 2024
My deepest sympathy to Wayne’s family on his passing. I worked with Chef at Foodbuy, and he quickly became a respected colleague, confidant, friend, and karaoke partner. He was so proud of his kids, and his laugh and perspective were infectious to all. Rest easy Big Sexy.
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Mike Lundy posted a condolence
Thursday, December 19, 2024
I work with Wayne for many years at the Delta London Armouries hotel when we were younger and just getting started. he was the best to work with and joy to socialize with for many years after, lots of great memories.you will be missed, My deepest condolences to the family,
Sincerely Mike Lundy
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doreen walker lit a candle
Thursday, December 19, 2024
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My condolences to all of you on the passing of Chef Wayne. I worked with Wayne for many years at the London office where he brought so much life and humour. He would stop by to say hi and say "Walka Walka, give me a hug". His energy and vibrant personality will be missed. May you find comfort in knowing that Wayne was a bright light amongst is Compass family.
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Josée Charbonneau-Kingston lit a candle
Thursday, December 19, 2024
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My deepest condolences to the lovely family Chef had. Brother and sisters & spouses, and of course Tyler, Maggie, Zach and Jack. May the memory of past days help you through these extremely difficult times. May his memory eventually bring smiles and warmth rather than pain.
I have know Chef for many years, and came to call him Chef Gibbs as he always called me Abby. "My Abby" he would say. And I will always be your Abby, Chef, always. You were a wonderful soul, a light shining bright to all who knew you. Someone who really left us too early.
Missed but never forgotten. May you Rest in Peace.
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Basil and Jeanette Martin posted a condolence
Thursday, December 19, 2024
our condolences to all of Waynes family in these times of sorrow
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Lily Saulite posted a symbolic gesture
Thursday, December 19, 2024
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The Nichols Family:
Chef Wayne…where do I begin. What a beautiful soul. Great friend. Cheerleader. Confidant. Family Man. Passionate. Energetic.
Tyler, Zack, Maggie and Jack - you were most important to your dad. Apple of his eye. Never a call went bye without him beaming about you. He was always so proud of your achievements. Always happy for family time with you. Maggie - those amazing shirts you got for him. Always a conversation starter on teams calls as they were always so fun. Beautiful Angel.
Chef Wayne lit up every room he entered. Food service industry all loved him. His passion and energy for food could be seen by all who crossed paths with him.
I have known Chef Wayne for 15 years at Compass and having worked very closely together in the last five years. We were lucky to have his passion for every project we worked on together. All we achieved could not have done it without you. A true team player. Always available to connect and strategize. Thank you for your partnership, dedication, calls, laughs, hugs, camaraderie but most importantly for your caring friendship my friend. I will miss you CW.
My deepest sympathies and condolences to the Nichols Family.
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Cathy Pearce posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Big hugs to you Tyler, Maggie, Zach, Jack and Tammy. We are so sorry to hear about your Dad!! Hold each other tight, talk about the fun / good memories and allow yourselves time to process and grieve. It is so hard to lose a parent, I understand that there are no words that help! So instead i am sending you big hugs! Some days will be harder than others...If you need anything dont hesitate to reach out!
Sincerely Cathy, Trevor and Josh
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Rodney Cabral donated to Canadian Cancer Society - Société Canadienne Du Cancer
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
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Rodney Cabral lit a candle
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
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My deepest condolences on your loss. Chef Wayne was always there, when I needed him, willing to help and listen. You will be missed , will cherish the great moments spend with you forever
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Lauren Davey posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
We are deeply saddened for the loss of Chef Wayne. His infectious energy and vibrant spirit brightened our days and he will be truly missed. Our deepest condolences to the family.
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Liane Gregory uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
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I think these photos of Chef Wayne at work (2015) capture a lot of who he was. Entertaining. Energetic. Big love of people. Big love of food. And what a full-throttle hearty laugh he had!
Condolences to his friends and family. RIP Wayne.
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Clarence Kwong posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
My condolences to Chef Wayne's family, friends and colleagues.
His energy and warm attitude made everyone feel part of the team, and we will carry on his teachings and spirit within all of us.
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Charles R posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Chef, I miss your light and spirit. You had an incredible way to shift the energy and bring joy to the room. May you rest in peace. Love always.
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Dana Lariviere posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
My heartfelt condolences to Family, Friends, & Colleagues at this difficult time.
We lost a wonderful man and I will think of you Wayne on our Birthday that we shared. Your infectious laughs and sense of humor will never be forgotten. RIP Wayne!
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Louie Papadakos posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
You will definitely be missed Chef Wayne!! Thanks for the great laughs and memories. Go Bills!!
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Chantal Sirois posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Chef Wayne was a great and genuine Human. I had the privilege to work with him through my career, the laughs I had with him are the memories I will keep. My deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Chantal Sirois
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Amrit posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Chef Wayne was an incredible colleague and mentor, he had a unique knack to make everyone on his team feel valuable and included. He will always be remembered fondly. My heartfelt condolences to his family, may you find strength in each other and his legacy. May he rest in peace.
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Don Fisher posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Going to miss you brother! Amazing colleague, business partner and friend. You'll be missed. My condolences to your family. God rest
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John Johnston posted a symbolic gesture
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
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Chef Wayne was a great mentor, and friend. He was foremost interested in elevating the profiles and contributions our chefs could make across the country. I had the opportunity to work with him in his first Chefs competition at Humber college many years ago. His enthusiasm made any challenge a great experience! He will be sadly missed. My condolences to his family!
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Meaghan Petruzzella posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
A little light and joy has left the world- Chef Wayne will be missed dearly by his Compass family. I loved chef’s big hugs and hearing him yell a boisterous hello from across the room, he was a man full of love for all of those lucky enough to have known him!
Wayne’s family, I wish you peace and strength to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your heart.
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Nancy Hepburn posted a symbolic gesture
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
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JoAnne, Bill and Tim and Wayne's Children
I am so sorry to read of Wayne's passing. We went to school together and he was always nice to me. I was happy to hear of his sucess as a Chef. I knew he liked to cook back during high school years.
It is really hard to believe that he is no longer with us. I haven't seen Wayne in years but I still remembered him well.
Think of the great memories you have of your brother and father and treasure them, they will help through this sad time.
Nancy (Sumner) Hepburn
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Florence Furlong posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
I am saddened to hear about the passing of Chef Wayne. He was always full of smiles and energy. The foodservice industry has lost a great one. My sincere condolences to Wayne’s family.
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Denise posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Wayne was so gregarious and larger than life! I have so many great memories of him when we worked together at the Delta London Armouries. We also worked together on a number of events at New Hope Church. He was always so kind and generous to everyone. I will miss his beautiful personality and his grand sense of humour, but I am also happy that he is dancing with Jesus in heaven.
Praying for you Maggie, Zach, Jack and Tyler,
Denise Swaenepoel
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Keith Brooks posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
What can be said about Wayne that has not already been said? He was a man full of energy and enthusiasm. I will always remember the time and faith shared. Our last conversation reinforced his deep sense of faith and what his future would hold. We had planned an online get-together over the coming winter months and sadly that will not come to pass. May God hold Wayne and his extended family and friends close as we all let go of his physical presence.
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Mike Folco posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Chef, I will always remember our first conversation. Lot of swear and talking about those local sqweesh sqweesh cheese. I just open a bag will driving to play that sexy sounds in your hears. That lough you made and your reaction was freaking funny. I realize that day working with you will made my life easier and grateful. R.I.P dear friend. You will always be part of us. Love you my oldest twin.
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Joe Maher posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Chef Wayne was a pleasure to work with over the past 20+ years. Although I was in the US, we kept in contact and over the past few years had regular calls, sharing best practices. His passion, energy and humor never failed to bring a smile to my face. He loved his family and his job and was always looking to make things better. He will be sorely missed and my deepest condolences go out to his family and work family. He was one of a kind. Rest in peace.
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Kevin Wong posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
I don't even know where to begin talking about Chef Wayne. He was truly one of a kind—the best person you'd ever meet. His energy,positivity, and genuine love for everyone around him were contagious. Being in his presence was like standing in sunlight; he had this rare gift of making you feel seen, valued, and encouraged. He poured his heart into everything he did, whether it was creating incredible dishes, offering words of encouragement, or simply sharing a warm smile. He made everyone feel like family and had a way of turning the simplest moments into incredible memories. My heart is heavy but I take comfort in knowing he's no longer in pain and having bottomless manhattans.
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Patricia Pilgrim lit a candle
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
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Sending my condolences to the family. Chef Wayne made me feel welcome the first day I joined one of his culinary meetings. He was so helpful and his way to make a day better was contagious. He will be missed!!! RIP Chef Wayne from Patricia (Nova Scotia).
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Dean Goodyear posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Without a doubt, one of the most genuinely friendly, loving, joyfully amazing people that I have ever had the complete pleasure to had known. You will be missed dearly, Chef! My sincere condolences and thoughts are with your family.
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Kerstin Fulford posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
I had the honour and privilege of working with Chef for over 19 years. He wasn't just a colleague, he was a cherished friend. He brough laughter and light to every interaction you had with him, and he had the ability to make you feel so incredibly special. I will miss our chats, our laughs, and his big bear hugs. Rest well my dear friend, you will be missed.
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Charlotte Maxwell posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Wayne (or Chef Wayne as we all called him, never just Wayne!) brought light, energy, fun stories and laughter to any Foodbuy meeting or team call - What funny slogan T-shirt did he have on that day, could he make it through the call without swearing :), would Angel, his cat, make an appearance, what amazing meal did he cook for family gatherings..... I know Foodbuy will miss him. Such an honour to have had the opportunity to know him and have worked with him. Rest in peace Chef Wayne
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Mary Jane Venus posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Tyler , Maggie, Zachary and Jackson, we are so saddened at the loss of your father and our friend. He loved his family and friends with his whole heart. He loved to entertain, and was the life of the party. He knew how to make others feel welcome and worthy. He also enjoyed deep and meaningful conversations. At this time, though painful, remember how deeply he loved you, and let those memories carry you through. Love Ken and Mary Jane Venus
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Brenda Brown posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
My sincere sympathies to Wayne’s family. Chef Wayne was my favourite chef at Compass Group Canada! His enthusiasm and passion for the culinary arts were exceptional. His big personality and infectious smile were loved by all. RIP.
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Lynn Sharp posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Jo Anne and the Nichols family
I only met Wayne a few times but he is hard to forget! Always so friendly and kind easy to talk to.
Sending condolences to you all. May your memories of him keep those smiles on each of your faces as you grieve. Hugs to each of you.
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Rebecca Wilson (Elston) posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
I am so sorry to hear of Wayne’s passing. His larger than life presence will be truly missed. Despite his off-pitch singing, his love and enthusiasm singing in the St. Anne’s senior choir was epic and contagious, and his generous invitations to brunches at the Delta Armories proved his true talents as a chef. If he couldn’t remember your name, he called you “bunny” or “pretty lady” and felt important nonetheless. To Tyler, Maggie, Zach, and Jack, you are all too young to lose your dad, but he sure did leave behind his amazing legacy in all of you. Sending my deepest condolences to Wayne’s entire family during this impossible time. ~ Becky
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Philman posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Such a bright fun energetic person! The industry will miss him dearly. I will miss him immensely, and it will take sometime before I fully process this all. One of my last memories was Chef Wayne sharing with me a photo of his son. He was so proud of his fitness achievements. Sending deepest condolences to his family. May his fun, positive spirit always be remembered!
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Marimae Moscone posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
RIP Wayne....my deepest sympathy to the entire family...your infectious laugh will always be remembered
Cousin - Marimae and Family
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Jan Robertson posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Dear Jo-Anne, Bill, Tim and Families ..... my condolences with the loss of your brother, Wayne. He and all of you always had a smile or a wonderful belly laugh when you were kids. I need knew Wayne in later news but the condolences tell me he must have been an amazing man. May your memories help with your healing.
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Dan Jeffery posted a condolence
Tuesday, December 17, 2024
So sorry to hear of Wayne’s passing. Always enjoyed hanging out with him at football with the kids.
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D.Kathy (Patterson) Hendrikx posted a condolence
Tuesday, December 17, 2024
So sorry to hear this sad news - my condolences to the family. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
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Donna Walker posted a condolence
Tuesday, December 17, 2024
My sympathy to the Nichols family in the loss of a brother. May God bless you all.
Sincerely, Donna Walker
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Jacob Davison posted a condolence
Tuesday, December 17, 2024
Our deepest condolences to the Nichols family. Tammy, Tyler, Maggie, Zack, Jack sending each of you our love during this difficult time.
Wayne truly was one of a kind. He was always the life of the party and lit up any room he entered. He will be dearly missed.
Will never forget the memories made with Chef 007.
Mike, Rachel, Jake and Dom.
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Jim Patterson posted a condolence
Tuesday, December 17, 2024
Dear Jo-Anne and The Nichols Family,
Please accept my heartfelt condolence on the passing of Wayne.
I am saddened to learn of your loss, and please know that you are being thought of
in the kindest way.
Sincerely,
Jim Patterson
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Scott Payne posted a symbolic gesture
Tuesday, December 17, 2024
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You were an amazing brother in-law, a great father, and not too shabby of a chef either.. Your long weekend steak and shrimp were always a highlight..Too many good times to list them all.
You will be deeply missed by all Wayner..
Tyler, Maggie, Zack, and Jack, We are thinking of you guys always. Your Dad was so proud of you all, and for good reason.
Love Uncle Scott and Aunt Penny
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Pete Posthumus posted a condolence
Tuesday, December 17, 2024
My deepest condolences to the entire Nichols family, I ran into Wayne at Canadian tire not that long ago , we had not seen eachother for some time but he remembered me rightaway and was quickly greeted with a great big smile and a big hand shake , always been a very kind person and would always make time to have a quick chat.
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Marc Hewitt posted a condolence
Tuesday, December 17, 2024
Tyler, Maggie, Zach & Jack
I was deeply saddened to hear of your father’s passing. I had the deepest respect for him and his work.
To this day I recall interviewing him for his first Compass Group job at University Hospital. Within 5 minutes I knew we needed his positive energy, professionalism, unbounded confidence and that laugh!
He was such an awesome person to work with. He was fun and full of life. I know you all meant the world to him and he was so proud of each of you
The world will be a little less bright without Wayne in it but heaven has got another star in its midst.
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Joe Woods posted a condolence
Tuesday, December 17, 2024
My condolences to the Nichols family at there time of sorrow.
Joe Woods & family
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The family of Wayne Charles Nichols uploaded a photo
Tuesday, December 17, 2024
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