Wayne E. Toussaint, 88, of Carbondale, died peacefully at home on Jan. 14, 2007 surrounded by loved ones. Wayne was born Jan. 22, 1918 in Princeton, MN to Jacob Toussaint and Lettie, nee Nichols, Toussaint and grew up in Chicago. He met Frances Cooper Toussaint, his wife of 67 years, at Northwestern University. She preceded him in death. They have two daughters, Jacqueline Rapp (William M.) of Arlington Heights, IL and Laurel Toussaint (Dr. Thomas J. Bik) of Carbondale, IL. He is also survived by three granddaughters, Jennifer Rapp Peterson (Jonathan), Stephanie Rapp and Alice Brandon; and one great-granddaughter, Virgin-ia Peterson, all of Evanston, IL. In addition to his family, Wayne leaves behind his beloved friend and caregiver of 18 years, Bobbie Schmit, of Carbondale. Wayne’s two brothers, Bruce and Vernon, preceded him in death. Wayne was a devoted, generous son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and friend. In 1948, Frances and Wayne moved to Park Ridge, IL, where they lived for 35 years establishing lifelong friendships. They retired to Woodruff, WI and Naples, FL and in 1999 they relocated to Carbondale, IL and became part of the extended Bik-Toussaint family on Pinewood Drive. Wayne graduated from Northwestern University with a C.P.A. and a B.S. in business. He served as an officer in the U.S. Navy. He was president of The Frederick Post Company from 1957 until 1971. In 1972 he became owner and C.E.O. of Vance Industries until his retirement in 1978. Wayne was an outdoorsman and nature lover enjoying both fishing and bird hunting. He was an avid reader, golfer and bridge player. He enjoyed socializing and meeting new people, establishing friendships around the world. Wayne and Fran were known for their generous and loving hospitality, welcoming visitors to their home as family. A Memorial Service will be held March 31, 2007. More information will be available later through Ridgewood Cemetery in Des Plaines, IL or family members. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Friends of the Forest Preserves, 28 East Jackson Blvd., Suite 1102, Chicago, IL 60604 http://www.fotfp.org/ or Green Earth, P.O. Box 441, Carbondale, IL 62903. Meredith Funeral Home, Carbondale, IL is in charge of arrangements and cremation.
