Wayne Brenner, a retired warehouse manager and military veteran with nearly 27 years of state service, passed away May 19, 2025.
Brenner spent most of his career at the Richard A. McGee Correctional Training Center until he retired in 2005. He also served in the U.S. Navy from 1969 until 1973.
Coworkers reflect on working with Brenner
According to coworkers, he also worked at Mule Creek State Prison in Ione and helped activate Valley State Prison for Women in Chowchilla in 1995 (now a men’s institution).
“Wayne was a great guy. He was our warehouse manager at the Academy for many years and was there when I started in 1994,” recalls Cam Applegate, a TV specialist at the training center. “Wayne was good at his job, ran a tight ship, but was always very personable and eager to help everyone.”
CDCR staff member Amber-Lee Whitford also fondly recalls her time working with Brenner.
“He was such an important person in my life and in the lives of many others,” she said. “Wayne was an amazing guy, a good friend, hard worker, and well-liked by all.”
Applegate agrees with her assessment.
“He was well liked and respected. He always had a smile and a satirical quip that seemed to slip into every conversation,” he said. “I always looked forward to a trip to the warehouse for equipment that came in for the chance to chew the fat with Wayne.”
According to his family, he “shared 46 loving years of marriage with his wife, Linda (Blecher) Brenner. Together they raised three children.” He is also survived by six grandchildren.
“Wayne found joy in working with his hands and spent many hours fixing up houses. His practical skills and willingness to take on projects were a hallmark of his character,” his family said.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., June 7, at Good Samaritan Community Covenant Church, 4684 Baldwin St., Valley Springs.
Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.
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