Dennis Richard Wade

Dennis Richard Wade, age 82, who lived in Portland, Oregon passed away peacefully on April 27, 2026, after declining health following the loss of his beloved wife. He was born on April 10th, 1944 to the parents of William Richard Wade and Audrey Elaine Major. He went to Madison High School and loved playing all sports, especially football.

One of Dennis's favorite childhood stories began in 5th grade, when he bought a cow and named her Judy Molasses Tangle-leaf. He would tie her up and when he got home from school she would be a tangled up mess. After he untangled her, he’d whistle and she would run and jump into his arms similar to a big dog. After years of friendship, he would eventually make up a contract that Judy never would be slaughtered and he sold her to help buy his first car, a 49 Chevy.

He eventually met the love of his life, Dorothy Ann “Cookie” Wade, and together they built a beautiful family and shared many happy years filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Having a business savvy mind, he owned his own businesses for 30+ years in the tire industry and car industry. He worked hard, enjoyed life fully, and especially loved golfing. For decades he and Cookie took golfing trips to Kona Hawaii every year, beginning in 1970. While there, they built lasting friendships and spent time golfing, sharing meals, playing games, laying by the pool, and creating many memories filled with laughter.

He will be remembered for his strength, values, long lectures and being the life of the party.

He is preceded in death by his wife Dorothy “Cookie” Ann Wade of Portland, Oregon, and daughter Brenda L. Wade (age 2 months). He is survived by son Dennis R. Wade II of Myrtle Creek, Oregon, daughter Michelle R. Wade-Edwards of Portland, Oregon, Son-in-Law Eric C. Edwards of Portland, Oregon.

He is preceded in death by parents William Richard Wade and Audrey Elaine Pringle. He is survived by 3 grandchildren Dennis Wade III (wife Janet Wade) of Peoria Arizona, Heidi Lowrey (husband Brandon Lowrey) of Sherwood Oregon, Tori Edwards-Zartman (husband Jacob Zartman) and preceded in death by 1 grandchild Ryan Edwards. He is also survived by 6 great-grandchildren.

The family invites you to join them at Lincoln Memorial Park and Funeral Home in Portland, Oregon for a graveside service at 11am on Thursday, May 14, 2026. Please meet at the main building parking lot by gate 9, where the processional will begin. This will be followed by a celebration of Cookie and Dennis‘s life at Lincoln Memorial Park and Funeral Home, main building, gate 9. Everyone is welcome to attend both ceremonies.