Wayne C. "Tuffy" Dent, age 92, lifelong resident of Two Rivers, passed away Wednesday afternoon, January 28, 2026 at Complete Care of Manitowoc.

Wayne was born in Two Rivers on January 23, 1934 to Lynn and Olga (Gaede) Dent. He was a 1953 graduate of Washington High School in Two Rivers, and moved on to serve as a proud member of the United States Military. He first joined the military in 1950 as a member of the Army National Guard, and served 3 years in active duty with the U.S. Army (1954-1957), serving several months during the end of the Korean War in 1954. Wayne had a break in service until 1973 when he joined the Two Rivers National Guard as an Infantryman. In 1980 Wayne became a radio teletype operator and then became a cook in 1984. He was assigned to HHB 57th FA Brigade in Milwaukee as the First Cook from 1989 until his retirement in 1992. Over the years, his decorations and awards were many. They included: The Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Sharpshooter Badge with Rifle Bar, and the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal. Wayne was an active life-member of the Two Rivers American Legion Post #165 and VFW Post #1248 where he served as Post Commander for 3 years. He also served as a vital part of the VFW/American Legion Honor Guard Unit, coordinating military graveside honors for MANY fellow veterans. Wayne was so proud and honored to be part of the group of veterans who participated in the Old Glory Honor Flight to Washington DC in October of 2022.

Tuffy was employed for a few years with Paragon Electric of Two Rivers, followed by 23 years with Fischer Hamilton Mfg, retiring in March of 1996. In his younger days he enjoyed hunting and fishing, playing softball, and loved to watch all sports. He was also a dedicated Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs fan. Wayne was united in marriage to Carol A. (Kupsch) Henrickson on April 22, 1983. She preceded him in death October 8, 2019.

Survivors include his five daughters: Victoria (Timothy) Weinberger, Kelly (Bob) Behringer, Mary Jo (Richard) Steiner, Kay Lynn Beaupre (fiance, Steve Ratajczak), and Jenny Highberger (Doug Pettit); his grandchildren: Emily, Kelsey (Nick), Abbey (Matt), Andy (Lori), John David (Michelle), and Brent; along with several great-grandchildren. He is further survived by step-children: John, Lynn, Bruce (Lisa); four sisters: Diane (William) Bohne, Leatrice Pelegrin, Kandy Brennan, and Karen (Ronald) Braun; the mother of his children, Mary Nochomson; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents and his wife, he was preceded in death by two brothers-in-law, Jim Pelegrin and Bernard Brennan.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 6, 2026 at the Deja & Martin Funeral Chapels, 1506 18th Street, Two Rivers. Deacon Paul Gleichner will preside at the service, with burial to follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, Two Rivers. Military graveside honors will be accorded by members of American Legion Post #165 and VFW Post #1248 of Two Rivers.

The family will greet relatives and friends at Deja & Martin Funeral Chapels, Friday morning after 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. There will be no Thursday evening visitation.

Online condolence messages may be shared at DejaMartin.com.

Memorials would be appreciated to the "VFW/American Legion Honor Guard" of Two Rivers.

The Dent family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the entire staff at Complete Care of Manitowoc for the compassionate care provided, and to the caregivers of Sharon Richardson Hospice for their support. Special thanks also to Dr. Giriyappa for the medical care; and a very special thank you to Vicki (from your sisters), for the years of caring for Dad.