Donald Lee Wade, 83, of Roanoke, Va., passed away on Thursday, March 2, 2023, after an extended illness.
He was born on Dec. 2, 1939, in Morgantown, to the late Jarrett Cole and Virginia Ellen Wade. His family lived on a farm in Maidsville during his childhood, where he attended a one room schoolhouse. In addition to his parents, Don was also preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Tirrell Wade; as well as his brother, Richard Wade; sister, Doris Jean Wade Cutright; sisters-in-law, Bernice Tirrell and Francis Rotunno (Steve); and mother-in-law, Adeline Tirrell.
He was a graduate of University High School and served in the United States Air Force. After his military service, Don started his own company known as Donald L. Wade Printing Company in Andover, Mass., which was in business for more than 40 years. He was known for his dedication to his family with his support, encouragement and advice. Don never met a stranger and was always asking how he could be helpful to others. He loved farming, traveling and boating. He was a member of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary for several years in the Massachusetts area.
Don is survived by his sisters-in-law, Madeline Somers (Peter), Helen Baker and Adele McCoy; brother-in-law, Jim Tirrell (Gale); nieces, Pam Reigel, Deanna Ries, Shari Peterson, Brenda Baker, Melissa Richter, Laura Gregg, Christine Somers and Jennifer Somers; and nephews, Shaun Tirrell, Mark Tirrell, Gary Wade, Eric McCoy, Chris McCoy, Peter Somers and Michael Rotunno.
Left to cherish his memory are his niece, Cheryl Brenton (Bill) as well as his nephew, Jeff Cutright (Leonita), who were constant caregivers. A special thank you to Ruth Kidd and Anne Carter who cared for Don also.
The funeral service will be conducted at Oakey’s South Chapel, at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 11. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will be held at Beverly Hills Memorial Gardens in Morgantown at 1 p.m. on Monday, March 13.
Arrangements by Oakey’s Funeral Service — South Chapel, Roanoke, VA (540) 989-3131.
