Some people leave behind memories; others leave pieces of themselves in everyone fortunate enough to know them. Wade did both. His life ended suddenly at 58, leaving family and friends heartbroken by a goodbye that came far too soon. Those who knew him know the world will never sound quite the same without him.
Wade was old-school through and through. Flannels, worn jeans, steel-toe boots, his hat and shades, steak and potatoes, catfish, and sweet tea were staples of his life. He spent years traveling the country as a truck driver and loved big rigs, fishing, and the open road. His favorite pastimes included watching The Three Stooges, Seinfeld, WWE, boxing, football, and Sanford and Son. His soundtrack featured Pink Floyd, AC/DC, ZZ Top, Ozzy Osbourne, and The Who, and if Wade thought you needed to hear a song, you were going to hear it. He was sarcastic, stubborn, mischievous, and always ready with a smart remark. Whether through practical jokes, relentless teasing, or his collection of Mad Magazine, he could be a handful, but staying mad at him was impossible. Beneath his sharp wit was a man who cared deeply, treated people with respect, and fiercely protected those he loved.
Above all, Wade was proud of his three children, whom he raised as a single father: Alex (28), Chris (27), and Savannah (24). They were his greatest accomplishment and the center of countless conversations. Savannah was his “baby girl,” best friend, and greatest source of pride. Alex and Chris shared years of memories with their father, from wrestling and fishing to lessons about hard work, respect, and character. His stubbornness, humor, and spirit live on in all three of them. Becoming Papa to his grandsons, Zayne and Christopher Jr., brought him immense joy. He treasured every opportunity to spend time with family and capture memories through photographs that are now priceless keepsakes.
Wade was also blessed with strong bonds among his brothers, Flynn, Darcy, Scott, Dennis, Roger, and Alan, and lifelong friendships that stretched back to childhood, especially with Robert Turner and the late Scott Carrell. In his final years, he shared his life with his beloved girlfriend, Johnna Ennis, his first and last love. Together they encouraged one another, faced challenges side by side, and built a relationship that brought out the best in him.
He is reunited with his mother, Carmen Lopez, his sister-in-law, Belen Stewart, and his dear friend Scott Carrell. His absence leaves an immeasurable void for his children, grandchildren, family, and friends, who wished for many more years of laughter, stories, and ordinary moments together.
So, play the music a little louder, watch an episode of Sanford and Son, tell his stories, go fishing, make mistakes, be human and raise a glass of sweet tea or whiskey in his honor. Wade left his humor in our laughter, his strength in his children, and his love in all who knew him.
There will never be another Wade.
Rest easy. Keep them laughing up there, save us a spot by the river. May we meet again.
Services: Visitation at KUTIS SOUTH COUNTY CHAPEL (5255 Lemay Ferry Rd.) on Tuesday, November 17, from 4-7 p.m. with funeral service at 6:30 p.m. Services conclude at funeral home.