Wayne Roten
Obituary

Wayne D. Roten, 78, passed away on April 6, 2026—coincidentally his father’s birthday. He was born in Los Angeles, California to Mabel Fleming Whitehead and Ethmer Roten Jr.

Wayne was shaped early by creativity and expression. His mother, a nurse with a love for theater and opera, enrolled him in Cotillion classes where he became an excellent dancer. His father, a professional studio musician, practiced flute over Wayne’s crib—instilling in him a lifelong gift for music. Wayne could pick up nearly any instrument and teach himself to play, finding joy in everything from Motown to Heavy Metal.

He spent his early childhood in El Sereno’s Emery Park, surrounded by extended family, before moving to Encino when it was still filled with orange groves. Later, in Woodland Hills, he embraced the surf culture of Southern California. Inspired by the film Gidget, he took up surfing in Malibu. He became a member of the Pacific Sea Surfing Association, surfing iconic breaks from Huntington to Santa Cruz. His favorites were Malibu, Oil Piers, Rincon and Refugio.

Wayne attended William Howard Taft High School and later studied Art at Pierce College. In his young adulthood, he began practicing Nichiren Buddhism, a spiritual path that remained a central and grounding force throughout his life.

He met his wife, Joanne Paradise, through their shared Buddhist community. After a whirlwind courtship, they married on January 21, 1973. They built a life together in the San Fernando Valley, raising their two children, Michael and Andrea.

Wayne was a family man who took pride in creating a warm and lively home—hosting gatherings, building and improving his space, and forming deep friendships within his community. In the 1990s, he founded WDR Investigation Agency after years working as a workers’ compensation Private Investigator.

A lifelong artist, Wayne gained recognition for his surf-inspired paintings, including his piece “Da Cat,” which was featured on the cover of Longboard Magazine’s Surf Art edition. He was also an avid gardener, cook, and creative spirit who continued surfing and painting well into later life.

Up until a few years ago Wayne enjoyed riding his motorcycle through the canyons and hanging out with his friends at Kristy’s Roadhouse (before the Woolsey fire).

Wayne had a deep love of humor and was known for making others laugh with his wit, impressions, and playful personality. He was passionate about film, history, the supernatural and spiritual exploration. A proud Los Angeles Dodgers fan, he cherished watching his team succeed, especially in recent years.

He is remembered as a California original: an artist, musician, surfer, biker, comedian, storyteller, Buddhist, and friend. Above all, he was a loving husband, father and brother who deeply cherished his family and community.

Wayne was preceded in death by his brother, Scott. He is survived by his loving wife, Joanne; his son, Michael, and daughter-in-law, Tamera; his daughter, Andrea, and her partner, Tony; his sister, Shelley; his step-siblings, Geoff and Melissa; and a wide circle of extended family and friends who will miss him greatly.

A celebration of Wayne’s life will be held at a family home in Woodland Hills on Saturday May 2nd from 1-4pm. Those wishing to attend may contact Tamera Roten at 818-359-8341 for details.

Godspeed on your next epic journey, Wayne.