Obituary of Richard E. Wilde

Richard Ernest Wilde, a loyal husband, devoted educator, and lifelong voyager, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2024, at the age of 90, at The Oaks Healthcare Center in Denville, New Jersey.

Born in 1934 to Ann (Robinson) and Ernest Wilde, Richard was the oldest of two boys. He grew up alongside his brother David in North Jersey, creating everlasting memories. Richard graduated from Lodi High School in 1952 before proudly serving our country in the United States Air Force from 1953 – 1957. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Trenton State College, now The College of New Jersey, in 1962. Richard then went on to earn his Master’s Degree from Rutgers University in 1966. In 1969, Richard married the love of his life, Sara Lynn (O'Keefe), and they settled into the Rainbow Lakes section of Parsippany, where they built a life filled with joy, adventure, and service to others.

Richard's passion for education and his commitment to his students were evident throughout his 36-year career as a middle school Math Teacher at Brooklawn Middle School in Parsippany. He was a beloved figure in the classroom, and his dedication to his students and colleagues earned him the respect and admiration of all who knew him. After retiring in 1998, Richard continued to pursue his enthusiasm for helping children; Richard's impact went far beyond the classroom, working for seven years as a counselor at Camp Treetops and then serving as co-director for 13 years.

He was a faithful member of his community, serving on the Board of Trustees at Greystone Park and as an Honorary Board of Trustees member for both Camp Treetops and North Country School in Lake Placid, New York. Richard also held memberships in the New Jersey Education Association and the Morris County Retirees Education Association.

Richard's love of sports and the outdoors was evident in his many pursuits. He was a soccer coach and referee at Brooklawn Middle School, an assistant track coach at Parsippany Hills High School, and a passionate runner who completed seven marathons in the tri-state area. He and Sara shared a love of travel, and they took many cruises together, with the QE2 being their favorite line. They also enjoyed Viking river cruises.

Richard and Sara had a special love for Polkas, once Richard taught her how to. Their shared enthusiasm created cherished memories at countless events and weekend outings sponsored by local bands. His infectious spirit and love for the Polka brought friends together, and the dance floor was always a brighter place with him there.

Throughout his life, Richard was a constant presence in the lives of those around him. He walked every day, stayed active, and lived life to the fullest. His love for his family, his community, and his students was evident in everything he did.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife, Sara; his loving brother, David, and his wife Anne; his caring sister-in-law, Nancee Bowne, and her husband Ned; and his two nieces and their families.

Memorial donations are being accepted in Richard’s name to an organization near and dear to his heart, Save the Children via www.inmemof.org to ensure receipt of your donation.

While services will be private, Richard's legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched throughout his remarkable life. Please leave a condolence or share your favorite memory of Richard here to continue to celebrate his life and let his light shine.