Wayne Ray Pecjak, age 72, passed away peacefully after a long battle with cancer at his home in Florence, Arizona, surrounded by his family on Wednesday, January 2, 2019. He was born May 15, 1946, in Denver, Co., to Frank and Mardelle Pecjak. He was a 1964 graduate of Basalt High School. He married Sandy Vetter on September 27, 1969. Wayne served in the Army as a member of the First Calvary Division, serving two tours in Vietnam, and is an Honored Purple Heart recipient. He worked in the ski industry and in construction with his father, but spent most of his career as an aerospace engineer with Northrop Grumman conducting EMI and lightning testing on defense aircraft. After a long, successful career, he retired in 2003 as a well-regarded engineer. Some of Wayne’s multiple interests include golfing, traveling, and camp hosting. His true passion was tinkering and he followed it by working in his wood shop making various items, such as pens, jewelry boxes and bowls. He also loved spending quality time with his family and supporting his kids and grandchildren in all of their endeavors. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Sandy; a sister, Cindy (Terry) Grinstead; daughter, Dana (Lou) Hertler; son, Frank (Eleni) Pecjak; daughter, Becky (Rudy) Casillas; 11 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; Aunt Donna; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Wayne was preceded in death by his son Wayne Pecjak Jr., parents Frank and Mardelle Pecjak, and grandson Gerald Hertler. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Wayne’s name to the American Cancer Society or your local hospice care. He will remain always in our thoughts and hearts.