Wayne Ronald Strong

Wayne Ronald Strong, born on April 18, 1944, in Lehi, Utah, to Ronald Davis Strong and Lorraine Whitby Strong, passed away on July 17, 2024. He was one of eleven children, treasured by his large family who resided in Alpine, Utah.

Wayne graduated from American Fork High School in 1961 and went on to attend Utah State University for a year. He then dedicated his time to serving a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Southern States Mission. After returning, he received his bachelors degree in education from BYU. Wayne served his country as an interrogator in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. While in Vietnam, Wayne grew to love the Vietnamese people through the time he spent engaging with them as a district missionary for the Church. After his service in Vietnam, Wayne went on to obtain an MBA from BYU where he met the love of his life, Colleen Holdaway.

On August 18, 1972, Wayne and Colleen were married in the Salt Lake Temple. They were blessed with seven children: Amy (Rob) Elkins, Dallin (Lauree) Strong, Stephanie (Dave) Montague, Carrie (Jeremy) Medford, Melinda (Tim) Pugh, Daniel Strong, and Justin (Tanya) Strong. Wayne was a devoted husband and father, always putting his family first and ensuring that they felt loved and supported.

Wayne had a respected career as a trust officer at several banks in the Phoenix valley area, retiring from Northern Trust. His dedication to Jesus Christ and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was evident through his service in many capacities, including as Bishop and Stake Presidency Counselor. In addition to his service in the church, he was also an active member of the Rotary for many years. Wayne enjoyed a lifelong love for reading, learning, and spending time with his large family.

Wayne’s legacy will be carried on by his beloved wife, Colleen, their seven children, and numerous grandchildren. His kindness, dedication, and unwavering faith will be remembered by all who knew him.

Services will be held Friday, July 26 at 10:00am, viewing at 9:00am at the Mesa North Stake Center at 933 E. Brown Rd., Mesa, AZ, 85203. It may also be viewed over Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/95707243157

Wayne will be dearly missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com . Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com , please check our website for accurate details and service information.