Wayne A. Czajka

Port Leyden - Wayne A. Czajka, 71, longtime resident of Port Leyden passed away on October 5, 2020 after a long battle with cancer. Wayne was born on September 24, 1949 in Utica, a son of Samuel A. and Genevieve White Czajka. A life resident, Wayne grew up in Port Leyden, receiving his education and graduating from Port Leyden High School with the Class of 1968. Following his education, Wayne entered the US Army and was a frontline infantryman in Vietnam. Wayne received the Bronze Star Medal, the Air Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, and the Purple Heart for his brave service to his country. He was honorable discharged on September 2, 1971 and returned to Port Leyden. He was married to Shirley E. Perkins in Boonville. Wayne was employed as an electrician for the Gould Paper Co., and then Lyons Falls Pulp & Paper Co., until the mill shut down. Wayne then worked throughout northern NY as an electrician for IBEW Union Local #910, Watertown until his retirement. Wayne was of the Catholic faith. He was also a member of the American Legion and V.F.W. He was a sports enthusiast, and especially enjoyed watching his grandchildren play Little League Baseball and also taking them to the golf course, he loved and cherished the special time spent with his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife Shirley, son Scott M. Czajka, Lowville, daughter Jennifer (Scott) Palermo, Old Forge, grandsons: Brayden and Kassel, brothers: Leonard "Butch" (Rita) Loomis, Port Leyden, Mike (Carol) Czajka, Virginia Beach, VA, a brother-in-law: Kenneth Reese, Port Leyden, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, grandson Scott Czajka, II, sister Gale Reese, and brother Kevin Czajka. A Celebration of Wayne's life will be announced at a later date. There are no calling hours. Arrangements are in care of the Trainor Funeral Home, Inc. 143 Schuyler St. Boonville. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite #300, Jacksonville, FL 32256.