Wayne Charles Putman, 88, of Centreville, Maryland, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on November 27, 1937, in Westminster, Maryland, he was the son of the late Margaret Busch Putman and Walter Norval Putman. Throughout his life he carried with him his family's values of hard work, humility, and loyalty.

He proudly served as a Maryland State Trooper for 22 years. His service reflected who he was at his core, steady, principled, and committed. He was a man who believed that anything worth doing was worth doing right, a standard he set quietly but firmly and one that lives on in his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

After retiring from the Maryland State Police, he and his beloved wife of 32 years, Marjory Ernst Putman, owned and operated Bikework Bike Shop in Chestertown, Maryland. Together they built not just a business, but a place rooted in dedication, craftsmanship, and community.

He was a man of few words who spoke through his actions. He taught without speaking. He loved by simply being near. He found joy in just sitting in the presence of his family, no conversation required. His strength was quiet, his guidance subtle, but his influence was profound.

If you were close enough to be called his friend, you were family. And while he was reserved in many ways, those who knew him best saw his goofy side, the subtle comedy, the twinkle in his eye, the willingness to entertain his children and grandchildren in ways that made them feel seen and cherished.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Marjory, a loving blended family of eight children, thirteen grandchildren, and 3.5 great-grandchildren, along with countless extended family members and friends who were folded into his quiet but steadfast embrace.

His legacy is not only in the life he lived, but in the example he set, that love does not always need words, that integrity matters, and that presence is sometimes the greatest gift of all.

He will be deeply missed and forever lovingly remembered.