Wayne Allison Cheney

On June 7th, Wayne Allison Cheney passed away peacefully, though too soon, at the age of 67 following an eight-year noble and humble battle with Parkinson's Disease. His wife Dale, of nearly 42 years was by his side as his mother's favorite hymn, "The Old Rugged Cross" sung by Alan Jackson played softly in his ear during his final breaths.

Wayne grew up in Bow and graduated from Concord High, class of 1972. He lived in Concord and Dunbarton before moving to Gilford 6 years ago to be closer to his grandchildren. Wayne worked for the Pembroke Police Department for 27 years and retired in 2006 as Chief of Police. A patrolman at heart, he held every rank at the PD over his career and was greatly respected among his peers, the citizens of Pembroke, and the NH Law Enforcement Community. He was especially proud of his police service and always carried himself with integrity and professionalism both on and off the job. Wayne was an avid deer hunter, always with the "Cheney Gang" walking the woods of Bow every season. He was also a graceful fly fisherman who enjoyed the serenity of NH's streams and rivers, always chasing the elusive trout.

He and Dale had many great adventures over the years including hiking all 48 of NH's 4000 footers. Following his diagnosis, they went on many road trips including two weeks in Alaska, Nova Scotia, National Parks and monuments from the Grand Canyon and north to Custer's Last Stand in Montana. They later purchased an RV and set off to see the East Coast including spending time in Myrtle Beach. Wayne loved music, especially the Beatles and we believe he knew every lyric to every song they ever made. He was a history buff who especially loved studying the Civil War, including his own family heritage from the war. He and Dale visited many battlefields in their travels.

Wayne was known to be a bit OCD here and there, mostly when it came to washing the car or his cruiser, sometimes multiple times a day. He was always sharply dressed, clean shaven, physically fit and handsome with the most beautiful blue eyes.
Wayne leaves behind his two proud sons (their hero), Jason Cheney and Adam Painchaud and daughter-in-law, Christy, his dad, Arthur Cheney, along with his brothers Matthew and Peter and his wife Paula, his sister Julie Ludevall and her husband, John and several nieces and nephews who will miss him, dearly. He will be a greatly missed "Grampa" to his grandsons Addison and Abel Painchaud, who were undoubtedly, the best medicine ever, always bringing him smiles and laughter, even near the end. He was pre-deceased by his mom, Helen Cheney.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the dedicated and compassionate professionals of the Merrimack County Nursing Home, especially the staff on 4 South and the Hospice Unit. Also, Bayada Hospice for their daily visits to Wayne and the support they gave to the family. In leu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation, are welcomed to do so in Wayne's honor to the Pembroke Police Association. A memorial service to remember and celebrate his life will be held at 10 AM on June 23rd on the athletic fields at Pembroke Academy behind Pembroke Police Department followed by a reception at the PD. Friends and family of the Chief are welcome to attend.

The Cremation Society of New Hampshire has been entrusted with arrangements. To view an online tribute, leave a message of condolence or for more information please visit www.csnh.com.