Wayne Paul Fricke

Born on June 24, 1940, in Buffalo, New York, Wayne grew up in the Buffalo area and dedicated his life to the care and healing of others. He earned his medical degree from the University of Buffalo Medical School in 1968, marking the beginning of a long and distinguished career in medicine. As a respected orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Fricke served his community with deep skill and dedication at Lockport Memorial Hospital and Inter Community Memorial Hospital for many years until his retirement.

Above all else, Wayne’s life was anchored by his very strong faith in Jesus Christ, which was the central foundation of everything he did. At church, he shared his love of music by singing in the choir and actively shared his faith by teaching the Alpha course. An insatiable learner and avid reader, he was also a passionate golfer who loved spending time on the course.

Wayne was remarkably generous with his time and expertise. Over the years, he traveled on numerous medical mission trips to Albania and Africa, where he trained and mentored local orthopedic surgeons to expand medical care abroad. In recent years as a resident of the Shell Point Retirement Community, Wayne continued to serve others faithfully—writing encouraging letters to prisoners, supporting local children's literacy, and regularly visiting and lifting up his friends and neighbors.

Wayne’s life was deeply rooted in his love for family. He shared many cherished years with his beloved wife, Sara Ann Fricke, until her passing in 2019. He was fortunate to find love again and married Lynn Kolowsky in 2023, who brought immense joy and companionship to his later years.

He is survived by his wife, Lynn Kolowsky; his daughter Joanne Thuman (née Fricke) and her husband Dennis, along with their daughter Raven Thuman; and his son Daniel Fricke and his wife Nicole, along with their children Nathaniel, Julianna, and Izzabella Fricke.

In addition to his first wife, Sara, Wayne was preceded in death by his cherished daughter, Elizabeth Fricke, in 1990.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Details will be announced once arrangements are finalized.