Wayne H. Smith, of Merrill, worked in radio for more than 40 years. He died July 22 at the age of 96.
After serving in the Navy during the Korean War, Smith attended broadcasting school in California. He and his wife lived in several different states including California, Tennessee, Louisiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
Smith worked in numerous aspects of broadcasting, including sales, engineering, and management. In 1990, Smith moved to the Wausau/Merrill area to be closer to their daughter and son-in-law. He worked at WJMT, and also started the Z104 classic rock radio station in the area.
According to his obituary, Smith was involved with many civic organizations and was an active member of the community. He made friends everywhere he went.
A memorial service will be held on July 31 at 2 p.m. at Holy Cross Chapel in Bell Tower Residence, Merrill. The inurnment will take place at the St. Francis Veteran’s Memorial. The family will receive friends beginning at 1 p.m. Wednesday at the Holy Cross Chapel.
