Billinger -- musician, former mayor -- dies
Published on -11/16/2009, 1:19 PM
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By DIANE GASPER-O'BRIEN
Music was a passion for Wayne Billinger.
So those close to Billinger got worried when he didn't show up to sing at church with fellow members of his quartet, Four Star, on Sunday morning.
A former mayor of Hays, Billinger, 54, was later found dead at his home in Yocemento.
He died of a massive heart attack, said his son, Michael Billinger.
Wayne Billinger, a native of Ellis County, served on the city commission for eight years earlier this decade.
He was owner of Advantage Recording Studio of Hays.
Michael Billinger said someone from Four Star called Sunday morning, asking if he had heard from his dad. Other members of Four Star are Billinger's brother, Rich Billinger, along with Galen Schmidtberger and John Braun.
"They called me and asked if I'd heard from him," said Michael Billinger, a student at Fort Hays State University. "It's really unlike him not to show up."
"So they picked me up, and we went out to his house," Michael added.
Wayne Billinger also has a daughter, Kelsey, a junior at Hays High School.
Wayne Billinger was one of a kind individual, I have known Wayne all my life in so many different aspects of my life. Wayne was someone that would keep you in stiches with his sense of humor and wit. He also had a very soft and sensitive side that also came out when you had a need. He was someone that touched many peoples lives, no matter what generation you were in. He had friends from young to old. Anyone Wayne ever came into contact with, there lives were touched in someway, he was someone that always left you an impression on you. He will be missed by many of us who had the pleasure knowing him, one great guy, Wayne is today making Jesus laugh with his humor. Love you Wayne Billinger.
(Posted by: John Goetz, Frisco TX)
We'll Miss Him Dearly: 11/17/2009
Wayne was an awesome person...For those who don't know him...Music definately was his passion in life and for those of you who are very old enough to remember Sweet and SourKrauts you will know why! Anyway, I recall the days of my youth when Wayne along with his brother Rich (my english teacher then) would give us directions and guidance in our school musical. He definately knew his stuff and was very adimate about music overall. On the political side of Wayne when he served on the city commission...I have to say he was one of our finest role models in our city's history. Overall, his personality and whit and charm is what made him who he is today. Anyway, I was shocked tonight to find out that a wonderful friend and muscian of mine had gone home to heaven. I wonder if he's playing any instruments or singing in that heavenly choir. Anyway, we will miss you Wayne...Thank you for being you and showing us a wonderful side of music....RIP
(Posted by: Randy Conrad)
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