Obituary of Wayne E. Lichtenfels

Wayne E. “Cookie” Lichtenfels, 94, Robinson passed away July 5, 2025, at home.  Born November 15, 1930, in Robinson the son of late Charles Ensley and Carrie Lynette “Nettie” (Montgomery) Lichtenfels.  Also preceded in death by wife Roberta “Bertie” (McGraw) Lichtenfels, siblings Herman Lichtenfels, Hazel Wesenberg, Irene Spory, Vongale Hillegas, Mary Novak, Thomas Lichtenfels, Chervyl Standish, Alvin Lichtenfels, and Ralph Lichtenfels, grandson Phillip Lichtenfels, and son-in-law Chris Peters.

Survived by children Donald Lichtenfels and wife Janet, Kevin “Lips” Lichtenfels, Charles Lichtenfels and wife Pam, Robin Peters, and Amy Murray and husband Jerry; grandchildren Brock and wife Lyndsay, Devin and wife Morgan, Zach and Bri, Haley, Tori and husband Andrew, Kayla and husband Mark, Ben, Lucas, Katie, and Gabby, and 7 great-grandchildren, and his feathered best friend Buddy.

Wayne was most famously known as Cook/Cookie, and his nickname showed through so much in his love for cooking. He would make meals that brought the whole community together to sit down, talk about life, and have Bible studies. His recipes like his stories were unmatched. Something so well-known and seen about Cook was his love for nature and animals. 

 Cook lived a life of learning, openness, and willingness to lend a hand to anyone. He never passed judgment and was a listening ear. He was also known to tell you how it is because he wanted what was best for you, even when he wanted to be ornery to get that point across. His door was open to any neighbor.

Cook was a hard worker and spent his life providing for his family, which he loved like no other. Cook had a life with many hats. Growing up working on a farm, a butcher, delivery driver, and many other jobs before him and Bertie opened their store. Through that store, he got the opportunity to know his neighbors and community while watching his family grow. He is immensely proud of his family and all they are. 

Friends received 5 pm till the time of service at 8 pm Wednesday at Kenneth A. Stuart Funeral Home, 139 Ligonier Street, New Florence.  Rev. Marsha Adams officiating.  Private interment Germany Lutheran Cemetery.