Wayne Bruce Bingaman was born to the late Robert and Opal Bingaman on July 3, 1962. The youngest of four siblings, growing up he played baseball and was active in 4-H. He developed a love for the fire service at a young age and became a cadet at age 14, riding his bicycle to the station in Mt. Orab, Ohio, where he grew up.
His love for the fire service was not the only love he had for serving his community, which was a passion that became more evident throughout his life. Wayne dedicated his life to the fire service, completing 45 years before his passing on August 14, 2022. He was serving as a lieutenant when he passed. Additionally, Wayne was an EMT and ended his EMS career at the Ripley Life Squad.
Wayne started his career in law enforcement and retired after 25 years of service. During his law enforcement career, his fire career shined through in his work as an evidence technician. He was certified by the DEA to disassemble meth labs, helping to battle the drug addiction epidemic that was consuming our county.
Wayne was always up for a road trip to the Smokey Mountains. It’s been said that he never needed a map; he always knew where he was going, and the first stop at Cracker Barrel was his favorite place to go. Wayne made sure he always had a full cup of coffee and a thermos for refills. Waylon Jennings was the only acceptable music. No stops were allowed until we hit the Tennessee state line.
Wayne was a devoted family man, leaving behind his wife of 24 years, Nowana; four children, Sarah (Nick) Bramlage, Dustin (Ashley) Bingaman, and Baylee and John Bingaman; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Amanda. He was also survived by a very special person, Owen Hunter.
Wayne was famous for one-liners and was very rarely left speechless. He was always full of games. He leaves behind a large group of friends who became family and colleagues who feel his loss every day. He was always the go-to for strength and support or just the voice sitting on the porch with his beloved fur babies.
Wayne left this earthly world as a larger-than-life mentor and servant to us all. As he said many times, “The best thing us old firefighters can do is teach these young ones how to become old ones.” Never stop learning, take care of your gear, and always be prepared. Keep your pockets full of equipment. Wayne was committed to serving his community day in and day out, never missing a beat when duty called. He was and will always be a true hero to his community and his family.
Both myself and my wife share in honoring that’s fantastic human being. Such an awesome hero we had here in our state of Ohio!! Our deepest condolences and prayers to his family, friends and fellow firefighters, Police and Smoky Mountain fans.
– Dave & Judy