Wayne 'Gene' E. Sprouse

Wayne “Gene” Sprouse passed away on Thursday, November 30 at Wilmington Nursing and Rehabilitation at the age of 91.  He was born on March 20, 1932, to Floyd Charles Sprouse and Clara Louise Georges Sprouse.

Gene was a talented and well-known musician.  He was honored to be selected as a member of the U.S. Air Force Band located in Albuquerque, NM during the early 1950’s.  Later in life, he played with many musicians including Vic Tooker and Hugh Manker.  Gene then created his own dance band — the Hi-Notes — with members from the Wilmington area who became life-long friends.  The Hi-Notes were a fixture at dances sponsored by The Elks, The Eagles and many other social clubs and events.  In later life, Gene’s retired friends created The Riverrest Trio and Friends group.  They performed at fairs, festivals, retirement homes and any location where the audience appreciated the “old standards” and swing hits.

Gene is survived by sons Michael (Kim) Sprouse, Martin (Sydney) Sprouse and daughter Sue Ann (Scott) Allen.  He is also survived by 6 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.  Gene was preceded in death by his loving wife of 61 years, Marjorie, and a grandson, Jason Sprouse.

Family will receive friends at the Faith Lutheran Church (421 E Vine, Wilmington) on December 5, 2023, from 10-11am, when a funeral service will begin.  Burial to follow at Sugar Grove Cemetery, Wilmington.  The family is being served by Littleton Funeral Home.