Wayne E. Techau, Sr., 92, of Rochester died Monday, February 25, 2013, at Sunrise Cottages in Rochester.

He was born on October 24, 1920, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa,  to Arthur and Nellie Techau.  His family later moved to Minneapolis where he graduated from Central High School.   On January 24, 1953, he married Patricia Steger at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Rochester.   They resided in Rochester where they raised their four children.

Wayne served in the Navy during World War II from 1941 until 1944 as a combat photographer.  While on assignment in the South Pacific he was injured in the Battle of Peleliu and was awarded the Purple Heart.   He was awarded the Bronze Star by President Roosevelt  which was presented to him by the Secretary of the Navy for his exceptional and courageous photography during the war.  Other assignments included the battles of Saipan, Guam, Tinian, Anguar, Phillipines Sea, North Africa, Sicily, and many others.   After  the war he attended Villanova University in Philadelphia before returning to Minnesota .  He was recruited by the Mayo Clinic as a medical photographer.   He later worked for Thompson-Yaeger, Inc., in Rochester and eventually purchased the business  which he operated until his retirement in 1981.

He was very active in the Boy Scouts for many years .  The Gamehaven Council recognized Wayne with The Silver Beaver Award for his distinguished leadership.   He also was a fourth degree member of the Knights of Columbus.   Wayne enjoyed camping with his family, gardening, photography, and spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Patricia Techau of Rochester, one son, Wayne Techau, Jr, (Cathy) of Rochester, three daughters, Marleen (Jim) Zak of Pine City, MN, Mary (Bert) Brinks of North Mankato, MN, and Margaret (Chuck) Buske of Rochester; 11 grandchildren, Joe, Brian and Charles Zak; Jennifer and Eric Techau; Jason, Deanna and Andrew Brinks; Sarah, Katie (John) Keller , and Brandon Buske; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and two sisters.

A visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, February 27, at River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home.  A funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, February 28, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church with the Rev.  Harry Jewison officiating.   Burial with military honors will be held in Calvary Cemetery .

Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com