Wayne Ardel McFadden

Wayne Ardel McFadden, 84, of Twin Falls, Idaho, passed away on March 10, 2026. Born on August 17, 1942, in Nampa, Idaho, to Royal and Mildred Messer McFadden, Wayne was the oldest of seven sons: Calvin, Bob, David, Irvin, Mervin, and Randy.

Raised on the family dairy farm, he learned the value of early mornings, hard work, and practical problem-solving. Eager to leave the cows behind, he grew into a spirited prankster among his brothers, developing a lifelong competitive streak that followed him into the arena, the racetrack, the workplace, and every endeavor he pursued. He graduated from Nampa High School and went on to build a life defined by hard work, adventure, and deep devotion to family and friends. Always ready to mentor a young bull rider, share training wisdom about horses, or recount a dramatic story from his own experiences, Wayne left a lasting impression on those around him.

Over the years he worked as a professional bull rider, racehorse owner and trainer, toy store manager, and salesman in shoes, hardware, candy, and copy machines. The friendships he formed in each role endured throughout his life. From 1990 until his retirement in 2002, he served as a brand inspector with the Idaho State Brand Department, a division of the Idaho State Police, where he formed some of his closest and most cherished friendships.

On March 10, 1966, Wayne married the love of his life, Diana Louise Lindsay. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on October 13, 1980. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he was preceded in death by his wife Louise on November 9, 2023, and by their son Shawn. He is survived by his children Brent (Caroline), Brandi Fries (Pat), Brian (Kristi), and Lance (VeAnn), as well as grandchildren Carson (Kalley), Cole (Brittany), Autumn, Clay, Cash, Wyatt (deceased), Morgan, Cooper, Camas, Madison, Adelaide, Allyson, Tucker, and Blaze, and three great-grandchildren.

Wayne will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his love of the western way of life, and his steadfast devotion to his family. His stories, presence, and steady example will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.