He was the oldest of four siblings born at the time of the “Baby Boom” in the United States between 1946 to 1964.
Dan was born in 1949 as schools were being constructed quickly to accommodate the new students. As a result, he attended four different elementary schools in Fresno CA including, Ernie Pyle, Frank Thomas, Wolter’s and Centennial. He went on to attend Sierra Junior High and finally graduated from McLane High School Class of 1967.
He enjoyed sports of all kinds and was very competitive in Tennis at McLane. He also was involved in Spanish club where he gained a grasp of the language that he would use later in his career.
He attended Fresno City College before continuing his education at Fresno State. His education took an unexpected turn after becoming aware of an interesting opportunity. He applied for and was accepted to training as a U S Border Patrolman. He served for several years and was proud of the work he was doing to stem the tide of illegal immigration and drug smuggling at our southern border.
Later in life he was diagnosed with a chronic mental health condition that ended his career with the US Border Patrol. This left him struggling to fulfill his goals and dreams. Despite the setback he found love and married having one daughter. Amy was the pride of his life and brought him much joy as she grew into a woman, married and settled in Fresno where they could maintain a loving relationship.
Dan was preceded in death by his parents James and Virginia Wade. He is survived by his three brothers and their spouses, Tim and Gail Wade, Jim and Becky Wade, Andy and Cindy Wade. He is also survived by his ex-wife Sue Hammond and their daughter Amy with her husband Justin Triplett also of Fresno.
