WHO IS WHO IN WALWORTH COUNTY

Mr. Sean Payne, manager

Clear Water Outdoor Sports, 744 W. Main St. Lake Geneva, WI  53147

 Interview by: T. Allen Dyer

Question:  Mom or Dad?

Sean Payne: My mom [a former owner of Jane’s (pub) —where the newer Flat Iron Tap now resides], was a divorcee the year I was born and raised seven kids basically on her own. She is definitely a shining light in the way I always try and live up to her. She always tried to give back, which is always why I try to give back too. I don’t make as good a burger as she did, but she cooked so well with just two fryers and a tiny bar grill.

Question: Sunlight or Moonlight?

Sean Payne: I like both, so moonlight on the lake on those really still nights, and sunlight because I’m a real water baby. First, I worked at Elmer Zingle’s boat rentals until he fired me [Elmer fired every kid at least once a week], and then I spent three years on the Lake Geneva Water Safety Patrol. My dad once helped a group of nuns enjoy Elmer’s boat rental and when they had left, he expected my dad, Joe, to write their check. Dad was harassed until the day Elmer died —for 50 long years.

Question: Wine or Water?

Sean Payne: Water. Wow. I drink a ton of water.  I’ve got to say hydrated because I’m running all day long. I was at Simple Café today for lunch and the girl had to keep refilling me. My kidneys will always be swollen.

Question: Children or Pets?

Sean Payne: Children. We have both. William, my son, is at Badger High and Viv [Vivian], is our rescue pet.

Question: Music or Movies?

Sean Payne: Well…  Live music.  That would be my preference. Alpine Valley Music Theater growing up. Red Rock [park and amphitheater, Morrison, CO], was a lot of fun.  And Stevie Nicks’ father owned a place in Tempe, AZ so we’d get to go there and see her as well.

Question: Pagan or Prayer?

Sean Payne: Prayer. Emmanuel Lutheran. Of course, we all went to St. Francis and then Badger, and I’ve shifted a bit. The Lutheran’s put on a great spread, right after the first service, but prayer, yes, definitely prayer. St. Francis was good though, going there eight years, all those people I can still call today, and are still in touch.

Question: Beach or Forest?

Sean Payne: Beach. White sand, cool blue waters. Most years we even rent a place in Siesta Key, FL.

Question: Work or Play?

Sean Payne: I consider myself a very lucky guy to be playing all the time. If you love where you work, it’s not really a job. I get to play, and I get paid.