Fond Farewell: Alumnus and Former Facilities Coordinator Wayne Wittmeier

Announced on: Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026

Wayne Wittmeier, a proud Chico State alumnus and beloved former facilities coordinator at Chico State Enterprises, passed away on July 12, 2026.

Born October 11, 1945, in Puyallup, Washington, Wittmeier was a first-generation college student. He attended Chico State from 1964–1968, where he earned a bachelor's degree in business and was an active member of Delta Sigma Phi fraternity.

Decades later, Wittmeier returned to campus, joining the Chico State Enterprises team in May 2017 until October 2018, when facilities coverage transitioned to Facilities Management Services. Though his time with Chico State Enterprises was relatively brief, Wittmeier formed meaningful relationships across the campus community.

"He genuinely cared about people, and I know he made a lasting impression on many of those who had the opportunity to work with him," said his brother, Russell Wittmeier, interim executive director of Chico State Enterprises, noting that Foundation employees continued to ask about Wittmeier long after he had left the organization.

Outside of work, Wittmeier enjoyed traveling with his wife, Gail, particularly to historic sites throughout the country. Their favorite destination was Disneyland. He was also an avid walker, and the couple could often be seen power walking along the Esplanade in the evenings.

Wittmeier took great pride in landscaping his home, cultivating lush, carefully manicured yards that resembled a park. He is survived by Gail, his wife of 56 years.

A private family graveside service was held July 27 at Chico Cemetery.

The University flag will be lowered in his honor on Thursday, August 20.