John “J” & Martha “Martie” Waigand

John "J" Waigand, passed away Wednesday, January 30, 2019, at the age of 82. John’s beloved wife Martha "Martie" Waigand followed him in passing on Sunday February 3, 2019, at the age of 78 after 55 years of marriage, both of Hazelwood, Missouri. They are survived by Martie’s siblings, Nancy (Mike) Dennison, Terry Hayden, Larry (Nancy) Hayden, Kenny Hayden, Rosie Weber, and Carolyn Chester, and John’s sister Cyrilla (Bernie) Carlisle, also many loving nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his parents Arthur and Gertrude Waigand, while Martha was preceded by her parents William E. and Petronilla A. Hayden.

John proudly served in the United States Military Air Force squadron before discharge. He then pursued his education in electronics before beginning a career with McDonnell Douglas and being part of the Gemini space program. After his contract with McDonnell Douglas came to an end, he then moved on to Western Electric and Panasonic after that. He always kept his value: “The most important thing is always to help other people.” Martie worked for many years as well, and retired from Hunter Engineering.

Both were longtime members of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church and members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Both J and Martie enjoyed spending as much time as possible on their 72-foot sail boat which they considered their second home, or enjoying nature and camping. They will be remembered for their kind hearts and giving attitude to those in need. Both were dearly loved, both by one another, and by their vast network of family and friends. J and Martie will be forever missed by all who knew and loved them.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in J and Martie’s honor to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, Cardinal Glennon Hospital, or St. Louis Children’s Hospital.