We regret to advise of the death of Warrant Officer Wayne Alvin Charlebois, MMM, CD (Ret’d) of Two Hills AB, on 14 January 2026 at the age of 86 years. Wayne was a Combat Engineer with Airborne and Combat Diver Supervisor specialties.
Born in the Ottawa area, Wayne grew up in eastern Ontario and enlisted in the Royal Canadian Engineers in 1956. After completing his basic Field Engineer training at the Royal Canadian School of Military Engineering in Chilliwack BC, his first posting was to 1 Field Squadron in Petawawa ON. His next move was to 4 Field Squadron in Werl, Germany (1961 - 64), after which he returned to 1 Field Squadron (1964 - 68).
Wayne was part of the large contingent of Airborne Sappers in 1 Field Squadron who were posted to Edmonton AB when the Airborne Regiment and 1 Airborne Field Squadron were formed in 1968. A six-year posting with the Squadron included a tour in Cyprus with the Canadian Airborne Regiment during the Turkish invasion, when he was awarded the MMM for his actions in combat.
Wayne served his last two tours in Chilliwack where he was with both the Canadian Forces Officer Candidate School (1974 - 76) and the Canadian Forces School of Military Engineering (1976 - 80).
Wayne retired from the Canadian Forces in 1980 and then went to work with BC Forestry before moving on to Alberta as a Department of Highways Supervisor. Wayne joined the Reserves with 8 Field Engineer Regiment in Edmonton and served with them until his full retirement in the mid-1990s. A debilitating stroke in 2000 limited his enjoyment of retirement.
In accordance with Wayne’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no service will be held. If desired, donations may be made to Heart & Stroke Foundation { 5626-51 Street, St. Paul, AB T0A 3A1}. Online condolences can be sent to the funeral home.