August 2nd, 2024 by WCBC Radio
Wayne Anthony Couter, Sr. peacefully passed away in the comfort of his home on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer surrounded by his loving wife and children. Born at home on August 8, 1935, in Cumberland, Maryland, Wayne was the son of the late Howard Edwin and Eleanor Marie (Spies) Couter. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his older brother, Paul Howard Couter and niece Dena (Couter) Hammersmith.
Wayne was raised in Cumberland and was a proud graduate from Fort Hill High School, class of 1954. As an academic and sports-oriented student, he was a member of the National Honor Society. Although Wayne had a football scholarship to William and Mary, he did not feel college was the right choice for him. After graduation his interest was piqued by refrigeration with a job that took him to Pennsylvania through the week, returning home on the weekends. In 1974, Wayne ventured out on his own and became the owner/operator of a plumbing, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning business known as Service Unlimited, Inc. and continued to guide until 2024 following his formal retirement at the age of 62.
Wayne was a member of the Potomac Lodge #100 A.F. & A.M., 32nd Degree Cumberland Scottish Rite, Ali Ghan Shrine, Directors Staff, Ali Ghan Shriners Past-Potentate 1996, Royal Order of Jesters (ROJ) Cumberland Court #117, Ali Ghan Railroad Unit, Algonquin #140 Tall Cedars, Ali Ghan Camper Club, Ali Ghan Highlanders Unit, Caberi for past-Potentates, and a life member and past-president of Ali Ghan Directors Staff. In 1996 he was honored as a graduate of the University of Hard Knocks through Alderson Broaddus University and was a past-board member of the Allegany County Museum and the Salvation Army. Wayne belonged to the Antique Car Club, Cumberland Outdoor Club, Cumberland Elks Lodge #63, Good Fellowship Club, Haystack Mountain Sportsmen's Club, Kennells Mill Sportsmen's Club, and Moose Lodge #271.
Family and friends will be received at the Adams Family Funeral Home, P.A., 404 Decatur Street, Cumberland, Maryland, on Thursday, August 8, Wayne's 89 birthday, from 4 to 8 p.m. with Potomac Lodge #100 A.F. & A.M. conducting a memorial service at 7:45 p.m. Family will receive friends on Friday, August 9, from 10 to 11 a.m. with a funeral service at 11 a.m. by Pastor Lee Brotemarkle. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park where Wayne will be placed at the right hand of Jesus.
