Wayne Leroy Wahlquist

Dr. Wayne Leroy Wahlquist, 93, of Ogden, Utah, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2025, due to natural causes. Wayne was born on November 9, 1931, to Fred and Loreen Wahlquist in a log cabin built by his father.

Wayne graduated from Idaho Falls High School in 1950 and went on to serve his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1951 to 1953. Following his service, he was called to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Canada from 1953 to 1955. On June 1, 1956, Wayne married Elsie Jorgensen in the Idaho Falls Temple, and together they raised a loving family.

Wayne earned a BS and MS in Geography from Brigham Young University and a Ph.D. in Geography from the University of Nebraska. Wayne’s passion for education led him to teach at Wisconsin State University at Stevens Point before moving to Weber State College in 1964, where he taught for 33 years. At Weber State he served as Chairperson of the Department of Geology and Geography. As a co-founder and co-director of the Utah Geographic Alliance, Wayne played a pivotal role in strengthening geographic education in public schools. His dedication included organizing conferences, institutes for teachers, and developing the Utah Geographic Olympiad for 9th-grade students. He was also the general editor and contributor to The Atlas of Utah, published in 1980.

Wayne was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where he served in many callings, including Bishop. For many years, he volunteered as a Family History Consultant at the Ogden Family History Center, sharing his love for genealogy and helping others connect with their heritage. Wayne was a kind and generous person who made others feel comfortable. He was a peacemaker and an incredible harmonica player.

Wayne is survived by his children: Craig (Kathy), Randy (Nina), Kim (JoJeanne), Lisa McKay (Ruston), Shane (Michelle), and Chris (Dari); siblings Bryan (Carolina), Earl (Norma), and Brent (Diana), and his sister-in-law Helen. He is also survived by 25 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren, and many additional “family members” who were welcomed to live in his house.

A viewing will be held on May 8, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm, and on May 9, 2025, from 9:30 to 10:30 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel, 1608 E 1300 S, Ogden, Utah. A memorial service will follow on May 9, 2025, at 11:00 am.

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