GIRDLER, Wade Girdler

He passed away surrounded by family, on April 8, 2026, at South Bruce Grey Health Centre, Walkerton. He was 61.

Beloved husband of Marilyn for 36 years. Loving father of Sara (Mark) Zettler of Walkerton, Ashley (Marcus Coombs) Girdler of Mississauga and Melissa (Dylan Alexander) Girdler of Walkerton. Proud Papa of Sophia, Elise and Nolan Zettler, and Isla Alexander.

Wade Girdler will also be missed by his sister Lori (Joe) Demaiter of London, his brothers Scott (Carrie) Girdler of Chepstow and Andy (Tammi) Girdler of Walkerton, special friends Marcie and Casey Pouw of Walkerton, his mother-in-law Mary Keip of Formosa, his brothers-in-law Jim Keip of Formosa, Bill Keip of Formosa, his sisters-in-law Rita Keip of Walkerton and Joan (Randy) Huber of Mildmay, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Wade is predeceased by his parents Lawrence and Margaret, his brother-in-law Dave Keip, and his father-in-law Harvey Keip.

Wade will be remembered as a man whose heart was as big as the fields he loved. Farming was his life, and he found his greatest peace sitting high on his tractor in the sun, a straw hat on his head and a jug of lemonade by his side. An aspiring cowboy at heart, he carried a quiet strength and independence that shaped the way he lived and loved.

He was a skilled mechanic who made friends with all his customers, never just fixing what was broken but taking the time to connect, share a laugh, and lend a helping hand. Social and quick to make friends, Wade had a gift for making people feel welcome. He was often running late, usually because he had stopped to chat or help someone along the way.

Wade’s love of his wife, kids and grandkids was at the center of everything he did. He took care of his family with unwavering dedication, always putting others before himself. A true caretaker to all, he was thoughtful, a deep thinker, and guided by a strong sense of logic and fairness. He was courageous in every sense of the word.

An athlete through and through, Wade was a longtime hockey player for the Walkerton Senators and a devoted fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Whether on the ice or in the stands, his passion for the game never faded. Off the rink, he was a card shark who loved a good challenge and even better company.

Wade had a quick wit and an endless supply of humor. He loved puns and was always the first to crack a joke, bringing laughter wherever he went. He enjoyed the simple pleasures in life—western movies, good conversation, and his well-known sweet tooth, especially for strawberry rhubarb pies.

In the face of illness, Wade showed remarkable strength. He battled cancer with dignity and grace, never complained, and remained steadfast in his love and care for those around him. His resilience and quiet bravery were an inspiration to all who knew him.

Wade leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and unwavering love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known him.

We wish to thank Wade’s medical team for their support during his battle with cancer. The VON and the Doctors and Nurses at the South Bruce Grey Health Centre showed Wade kindness and great care. We are especially thankful to Doctor Horsfall and Landa Lippert, RN, who went above and beyond to ensure comfort, care and support of Wade and our entire family.

A celebration of Wade’s life will be held on Saturday, April 18th, 2026, at the Elmwood Community Centre (38 Concession Road 10, Elmwood) from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., with a time of remembrance at 2:30 p.m.  

As expressions of sympathy, donations to the Saugeen Hospice or Canadian Cholangiocarcinoma Collaborative would be appreciated by the family. Donations and condolences may be made by visiting www.cameronfuneralhomes.com.

Visitation