Thompson - Wayne David Tanson of Thompson CT, passed suddenly on Sunday, May 17, 2026.

Wayne was a special man. He was well loved and appreciated by all that knew him. He was a boy scout from boyhood, and a scout leader for his sons. He was part of CT Troop 66 and the Jesse Hay Memorial Association. For many years Wayne was a counselor with The American Legion Boys State. In this roll he helped young men develop civic leadership and pride in American citizenship. He was a longtime member of the Security team at the Woodstock Fair. "Every Labor Day Weekend!!" Because of his friendly nature, this role suited him well.

Wayne attended Bridgewater State College ( MA) for both his undergraduate degree and for his master's degree. Over the years he taught Physics, Math, and played a part in the development of STEM programs. He helped write the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System, MCAS, for STEM, (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics). He began his teaching career at Norwich Technical High School in Norwich CT. He taught at Dimond High School in Fall River, MA, Walpole High School in Walpole MA, Milford High School in Milford, MA and retired from Uxbridge High School in Uxbridge MA.

He leaves his wife of 40 years, Christine Mary (Connolly) Tanson, as well as his mother Patricia Jane (Patten) Tanson, of Rockport, MA, and his brother Phillip D. Tanson and his wife Julie, of Rockport, MA. In addition, Wayne leaves two sons, Matthew Wayne Tanson of Thompson, CT, and Jacob James Tanson and his fiancé Emilia Rose Bordeleau and their son Sullivan Nash Tanson, of Moosup, CT.

Wayne was predeceased by his father, Matthew Tanson Jr.

The family is planning a Celebration of Life, to be determined at a later date. Donations in Wayne's honor may be made to Boy Scout Troop 66 of Thompson CT, 108 Mountain Hill Road, North Grosvenordale, CT 06255.