Dr. Wayne C. Templer

Wayne C. Templer, MD
July 13, 1921 – January 25, 2025

Dr. Wayne C. Templer, a physician, veteran, and community leader, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2025, at the age of 103 surrounded by family. A lifelong Corning resident, Wayne was born to Willis C. Templer and Elsie Moest Templer on July 13, 1921. He was predeceased by two loving wives: Helen Louise Carter, whom he married in 1946 and who passed in 1973, and Mary Cheresnowsky, whom he married in 1976. She died in 1987. Wayne’s parents and his sisters, Martha James and Elsa Brink, also predeceased him. 

Wayne dedicated his life to serving others, both in his medical career and through his community involvement. After graduating from Corning Public Schools, he earned an undergraduate and medical degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo, graduating in 1945. After his Army service, he began practicing medicine in Corning in 1950. Wayne opened a private solo office on 2nd Street in 1952, where he cared for patients for nearly four decades. He served for 18 years as Steuben County Coroner.  Following his retirement from private practice, Wayne worked part time at the Bath VA Hospital for almost 18 years.

Dr. Templer served in the U.S. Army during World War II. His service took him to Germany, the Philippines, Guam, and various other locations.

Wayne’s commitment to his community extended far beyond medicine. He was an active member of numerous organizations in Corning, including the Corning-Painted Post Masonic Lodge # 168, the Corning Gyro Club, the Baron Steuben Coffee Club, Castle Creek Fishing Club and the Corning Hospital Staff. He was also involved with the New York State Medical Association, the Steuben County Medical Society, the Seventh District Medical Society, the American Medical Association, and local civic organizations like the Boy Scouts, Day Spring, and Pathways. Wayne’s impact was felt in many areas of the Southern Tier.

Known for his adventurous spirit, Wayne was involved in many outdoor sports. An avid fly fisherman, he traveled to Canada and Alaska to fish for salmon.  He also spent countless hours on the waters of Keuka Lake - both sailing and perfecting his craft as a “right on the bottom” trout fisherman.  He enjoyed hunting deer, goose and duck.  He traveled often - visiting Africa, Europe, China, England and the Caribbean. 

Dr. Templer’s professional legacy is marked by his contributions to the medical community in Corning and the Southern Tier. In 1986, Dr. Michael Cilip joined him when Wayne became the first doctor in the Corning area to merge his practice with the Guthrie Clinic in Sayre, PA.

Wayne is survived by his children, Linda (Keith) Alexander of Fairport, NY, and W. Carl Templer of St. Petersburg, FL, along with his two grandchildren, Lindsey Alexander of Vernon Hills, IL, and Craig Alexander of Califon, NJ, and three great-grandchildren. Several nieces and nephews also survive him.

Generally known simply as "Doc," he will be remembered for his dedication to his patients and the impact he made on the lives of those he met.

Calling hours will be held at the Acly-Stover Funeral Home, 327 East Second Street in Corning, NY on Friday, the 31st of January from 11 am – 2 pm.  A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at the same location from 2pm – 3pm.

Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the charity of your choice in his memory.

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