A good and gentle man passed away March 14, 2021. Kenneth Jay Wade died due to complications of diabetes. After a valiant effort he said, “Enough.” Enough of surgeries, amputations, and hospitals. Even though he grew weary of that horrible disease, Ken and his wife Tess laughed and loved each other through it all.
Ken was born January 15, 1954 in San Francisco, CA. A graduate of Cappuccino High, he went on to study at the College of San Bruno, then on to St. Anthony & Lambeau School of Real Estate. He started several successful businesses in real estate, men’s fashion, commercial printing and graphics, retiring as a Senior VP of Quad Graphics. Being “English” and a man of “good taste”, he loved fashion. He was the largest importer of GB Clothing in the US and won an award from Queen Elizabeth for his efforts. He also owned an international belt company, “Refuge”. His careers allowed him the opportunity to travel through Europe, returning many times to his beloved England. His clothing size was the sample standard, so he often ended up wearing the samples at market. This gave Ken and Tess many a laugh, as the story grew to his illustrious career as an “international model.”
He is survived by his wife Tess Fae Wade; his children Jesse Michael Wade, Rebekah Nicole (Anthony) Wade, Savannah Clare Wade, Morgan Maxwell (Marissa) Wade; his step children Aja Denelle (Jonah) Eyre, Sonna Michelle (Sloan) Robison, and Tyler Jeffery Fegert and many grandchildren whom he adored. His brothers include Stanly William Wade III and Grant Edgar Wade.
Ken loved his children and worked hard to provide, teach, and play with them. He coached all four of them in soccer, coaching a total of 35 teams during their youth. Ken served as an AYSO Commissioner (American Youth Soccer Organization) and was instrumental in bringing the organization to Orange County, also implementing major improvements in their soccer facilities.
Ken had amazing blue eyes and a beautiful smile. Things that made Ken smile most were serving in a YSA bishopric, in the temple, at the MTC, and remembering his two senior missions served with Tess to London and Anaheim. He was a kind and giving man who found peace in helping others.
Ken had limited contact with his earthly father, so Ken’s Father in Heaven became his Papa. You could feel this in Ken’s prayers. He truly loved and talked with his Father and knew that he was loved by Him as well.
Ken adored his beloved mother Pearl who raised him as a single mom. He talked often of the joy of seeing her again and of Pearl being the one to welcome him home. Thinking of Ken reunited with his Mom gives Tess and his children tender comfort.
