WILDE, David Wilde

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of David Wilde, who died after a brief illness in hospital surrounded by his family.

Loving husband to Anne Marie. Beloved father to Catherine and Patricia Wilde. Cherished stepfather to Stephanie DeRapp, Dara Haggarty and Travis Bowman. Dear Poppa to Madison and Mayme Anstett, Cody Haggarty, Amanda and Alexa Bowman, Jordan and Dustin Scheltgen and Carlyn McKillop. Brother to Mary Lou Slater and Peter Wilde. He leaves behind many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Predeceased by parents John Wilde and Therese Forgie.

Born in Collingwood, David spent every summer on the beach in Wasaga at “Johnnie’s Cabins”, the family business. As he would often say, “Once you get sand between your toes you can never leave”, and David spent the rest of his life living and working in Wasaga Beach. Joining Wasaga Marine in 1969, he spent the next 50 years at the forefront of the burgeoning marine industry in Ontario. As a founding member of the Wasaga Kinsmen Club, David made life-long friends and contributed to the community. Throughout the years he had many, many, many adventures both on the water and off.

David was a true optimist and had an indomitable spirit. He rarely had a bad word to say about anyone and inspired great affection in most people he encountered. His honesty, empathy, and wise advice are irreplaceable and will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

We will be gathering to share our memories and celebrate David in the future and will share the details when they are available.

Special thanks to the nursing staff at RVH for their superb care to both Dad and the family during such a difficult time.