Wayne Petko

Wayne Petko, age 70, passed away peacefully & surrounded by loved ones on April 1st, 2024.

He was born in Orange, NJ, to William M. Petko and Ruth Petko (nee Maurer). Wayne graduated from Madison High School and went on to earn his Associate’s degree from the County College of Morris. He worked as a research scientist for Sanofi in Bridgewater until his retirement in 2012.

Wayne resided in South Bound Brook with his beloved wife of 47 years, Margaret (nee Matarazzo) and their children. He enjoyed various hobbies including astronomy, hiking, biking, cooking, camping, listening to music, spending time with his grandkids, photography, woodworking, birdwatching, and reading non-fiction.

Wayne was a member of the New Jersey Astronomical Association and the D&R Canal Watch, serving as President of the NJAA in the early 2000s. He enjoyed star parties at Cherry Springs, PA. He crafted at least six telescopes, his first created at age 16 using a book from the library. Wayne was passionate about exploring the wonders of the cosmos.

Wayne was preceded in death by his brother, David.

He is survived by his loving wife, Margaret, two cherished daughters, Melissa (Mark) Ellersick and Karen (Greg) Starker, four grandchildren, Zane, Jade, Kimberly, and Riley, his twin brother, Warren, his cat, Shadow, as well as extended family and friends.

A gathering will be held from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. with a memorial service taking place between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at Hagan-Chamberlain Funeral Home, 225 Mountain Avenue, Bound Brook, NJ. All services are under the supervision of Hagan-Chamberlain Funeral Home.

All are invited to say a few words to celebrate Wayne’s life.

In lieu of flowers, please forward donations to:

New Jersey Astronomical Association Click Here to Donate

or the Cherry Springs State Park Dark Sky Fund Click Here to Donate