Wayne Anthony Higgins died on August 10, 2026. Memorial Mass will be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in North Mankato on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 11am with a visitation starting one hour prior.

Wayne was born May 18, 1947 to James and Genevieve (LeBeau) in Duluth, MN. Wayne graduated from Cathedral High School in 1965. He learned to play the drums and performed with his friends, calling their first band “The Case of Good Judgement” where they played locally.

Wayne met his beloved bride while going to a friend’s house to practice with the band. She was out mowing and he asked the friend who that was and his friend replied “That’s just Carol.” Wayne told his friend he would like to meet “just Carol,” and in 1969 he married Carol Mark at St. Clements Catholic church in Duluth, MN. They had two daughters, Dawn Marie and Sherri Lynn, named after songs by the Four Seasons. Wayne and Carol moved from Duluth in 1972 and for the next 5 years would move to Chicago, IL, Yankton, SD, and Platteville, WI before settling in New Ulm, MN where they raised their family. Wayne worked with Combined Insurance for over 40 years where he was a salesman, trainer, and district manager. In more recent years, Wayne and Carol moved from New Ulm to Fairfax and currently reside in Mankato, MN. They also enjoyed spending their winters at their place in Port Charlotte, FL.

Wayne continued his love of music by joining various local bands and playing at local festivals and weddings. Over the years he was active with his church by playing drums with the Symbols of the Peace at New Ulm Holy Trinity and serving with the Knights of Columbus.

Wayne loved making people laugh, telling jokes and stories. Any stranger met was a new opportunity to make a friend. He was also known for his positive mental attitude (PMA). Every adversity was an opportunity to make the most of the situation. He instilled that same positive outlook and can-do attitude to those closest to him. His love for his wife and family was seen through time spent camping, focusing on time with children and grandchildren and especially the love of his life, Carol.

Wayne is lovingly remembered by his wife, Carol; daughters, Dawn Runge-Busch (Tim Busch), and Sherri (John) Matthews; grandchildren, Naython Runge, Nicole (Austin) Betz, Jake Matthews; and sister Bonnie (Mike) Tweety.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, James and Genevieve; brothers, Don, Jim, Roy, and Butchie; sisters, Pat, Sr. Mary, Nancy, Sr. Barb, Irene, Susan; and his son-in-law, Randy Runge.