Ellen Fay Wilder

A graduate of Buena Vista High School, she carried a deep appreciation for learning and creativity throughout her life. Her professional journey led her to the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum, where she found joy in supporting the arts and sharing beauty with others.

Fay was a woman of many interests and endless curiosity who was always discovering something new to try. Whether it was her love of rocks and nature, a good book, or her countless hikes and long walks outdoors, Fay embraced life with wonder and enthusiasm. She cherished her many visits to Warren Dunes State Park.

Above all, Fay was devoted to her family. She found her greatest joy in time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She especially enjoyed cuddling with her grandchildren and going on many hikes with them.

Fay was preceded in death by her former husband, David Wilder; her parents, Edward and Jean Gallagher; and her sister, Paula Glass.

She is survived by her children Tiffany (Jeremy) Engel, Matt (Amy) Wilder, Christopher (Kristi) Wilder, Daniel Wilder, and Russell (Amanda) Wilder; grandchildren Brooklyn, Alex, Mason, Emery, Kendall, Aiden, Alyssa, Greyson, Sullivan, Stella, Liam, Jane, Kelly, Lily, Julian, Madelyn, and Emilia; great-grandchildren Aubrey, Nikki, and Miles; and her brother Brent (Janice) Gallagher.

There will be a Celebration of Life held on October 4th at Lawndale Estates, 4509 Longmeadow Blvd W, Saginaw, MI from 2 pm to 6 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Dementia Society of America or the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum in honor of Fay.