COMMANDER WAYNE HARTING
Born in Brainerd, Minnesota, I graduated from Pillager High School in 1986 and immediately embarked on a path of service by joining the military through the buddy system—though my buddy didn’t pass the physical. As a Crane Operator (62 Foxtrot) with the 142nd Engineer Battalion, I served for six years, including two summers of active AGR duty at Camp Ripley, where I operated a wide range of heavy equipment. During that time, I contributed to several key projects, including construction of the Tactical Runway, the Veterans Cemetery, and the camp’s first electronic firing ranges. I also had the opportunity to spend two memorable weeks serving in Honduras. I was honorably discharged in 1991.
While still serving in the National Guard, I began my career in the waste management industry with Poor Gary’s Disposal, owned by Gary Loge, working as a roll-off driver. When the company was acquired by Waste Management, I advanced to Safety Coordinator for the Northern Region and later managed the Brainerd and St. Cloud facilities. After seeking a new direction, I spent eight years with Crow Wing Power before returning to the waste industry with Waste Partners, a new venture launched by Gary Loge and his son, Eric. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with three generations of this family-owned business, now led by Gary’s grandsons. I’ve witnessed and contributed to the company’s growth from 15 to 41 employees, serving over 15,500 customers today.
I’ve been married to my wife, Stacey, for seven years. Both of our parents—Bob & Judy Harting and Sam & June Shields—were active members of the Brainerd Legion. I’m a proud father of two daughters, April (Kevin Denny) and Samantha, and grandfather to five energetic grandsons who all share a passion for sports.
When I’m not working, you’ll likely find me floating down the river fishing or staying active on the racquetball or pickleball court.
While still serving in the National Guard, I began my career in the waste management industry with Poor Gary’s Disposal, owned by Gary Loge, working as a roll-off driver. When the company was acquired by Waste Management, I advanced to Safety Coordinator for the Northern Region and later managed the Brainerd and St. Cloud facilities. After seeking a new direction, I spent eight years with Crow Wing Power before returning to the waste industry with Waste Partners, a new venture launched by Gary Loge and his son, Eric. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with three generations of this family-owned business, now led by Gary’s grandsons. I’ve witnessed and contributed to the company’s growth from 15 to 41 employees, serving over 15,500 customers today.
I’ve been married to my wife, Stacey, for seven years. Both of our parents—Bob & Judy Harting and Sam & June Shields—were active members of the Brainerd Legion. I’m a proud father of two daughters, April (Kevin Denny) and Samantha, and grandfather to five energetic grandsons who all share a passion for sports.
When I’m not working, you’ll likely find me floating down the river fishing or staying active on the racquetball or pickleball court.
