Wayne R. Maes

In Loving Memory of Wayne R. Maes

There are people who make an impact by what they accomplish, and there are those who make an even greater impact by how they make others feel. Wayne Maes did both.

Wayne passed away peacefully on July 26, 2026, leaving behind a family who loved him deeply and countless friends, students, colleagues, and neighbors whose lives were forever enriched by his wisdom, compassion, and determination. While his professional accomplishments were extensive, those who knew him best knew that his greatest pride was never found in titles or awards-it was found in his family.

Wayne shared a beautiful life in Arizona, Columbia, Mexico and Corrales, New Mexico with his beloved wife, Jolene, whose love and partnership were the foundation of their family. Together they raised three children: Jennifer (Peter Cantor), Dotty Nelson, and Tim (Cathy) Maes. He delighted in being "Grandpa" to Brett Maes, Stuart Maes, and Nathan Cantor, celebrating their accomplishments, encouraging their dreams, and reminding them-through his words and his example-that character, kindness, and perseverance matter most. Few others in this world could pass along the fine skills of trout stream fishing in the tight and majestic mountain streams of New Mexico with a Mepps or Panther Martin spinner.

To his family, Wayne was the steady presence everyone could count on. He was a great listener and eloquent speaker, offering thoughtful advice without judgment, and celebrated life's milestones with genuine joy. Whether gathered around the dinner table, sharing stories about Port Huron and Uncle Tony's farm, or simply enjoying time together, Wayne made every moment meaningful.

He believed that every person deserves dignity, respect, and the opportunity to succeed. Those beliefs guided both his life and his remarkable career as a tenured professor at the University of New Mexico. After earning advanced degrees in psychology and counseling, he devoted more than five decades to teaching, mentoring, counseling, and improving the lives of students, families, and educators. As a professor, department chair, vice associate dean, licensed psychologist, Fulbright Scholar, and ultimately Professor Emeritus at the University of New Mexico, he influenced generations of students and professionals in numerous countries.

Yet Wayne never measured success by the number of degrees he earned or honors he received. Instead, he measured life by the people he was able to help and the relationships he built along the way. He possessed a rare gift for making others feel heard, understood, and valued. His students often became lifelong friends, and his colleagues admired not only his intellect but also his humility and generosity.

Outside of his professional life, Wayne found joy in the great outdoors, hiking, fishing and exploring New Mexico.

Wayne's legacy is not found solely in books, classrooms, or professional achievements. It lives on in the lives he changed, the family he cherished, and the values he passed from one generation to the next. He taught those around him to be curious, compassionate, generous, and courageous.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Jolene of 57 years; his children, Jennifer (Peter Cantor), Wayne Paul Maes, Dotty Nelson, and Tim (Cathy) Maes; his cherished grandchildren, Brett Maes, Stuart Maes, and Nathan Cantor; extended family: dear friends; and countless former students and colleagues.

Although our hearts are broken, we are comforted by the immeasurable gift of having shared life with Wayne. His love, wisdom, gentle spirit, and unwavering belief in others will continue to guide us. His story doesn't end here, it lives on in every life he touched and in every act of kindness inspired by his long, rich and meaningful life.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at the Historic Old San Ysidro Church - 966 Old Church Road, Corrales, NM 87048.