Michael Eugene Wade

Michael Eugene Wade, the heart and soul of his family, passed away on November 4, 2024 after a short illness.  He was 73.

Michael was born in Coos Bay, Oregon on April 10, 1951, to parents Peggy and Edward Wade.

Upon graduating from Oregon State University, Michael moved to New York City to pursue a career in marketing. Michael fell in love with the city and then Liz, whom he married in 1981. Looking for a quieter lifestyle, the two moved to Oregon where they pursued new careers and raised their two children in Portland.

A software consultant by profession, Michael was deeply interested in the causes and effects of social and economic injustice. The list of action groups Michael participated in is wide, ranging from his local neighborhood association to Occupy Portland. Michael was involved in the First Unitarian Church’s Economic Justice Action Group for many years. He eventually realized that grassroots organizations brought him the most fulfillment, especially Friends of Portland Community Gardens. Dedicated to supporting community gardeners, the organization provides educational resources and distributes fresh produce through its Produce for People program. Michael served on the board for several years, during which time he built mason bee houses and crafted portable vegetable gardens to donate to unhoused communities throughout the city.

Retirement was not a concept Michael understood. Upon “leaving the workforce,” Michael began to garden both at home and at his community plot. He also invested in wood working tools, most of which he used to make updates to his and his children’s homes. When their first grandchild was born, he and Liz embraced their new roles as Papa and Nana, spending several days a week babysitting their four grandchildren. Michael chose this path with purpose, to build a strong bond with each grandchild, and he succeeded.

Despite his many interests and hobbies, Michael’s first love was family. He was a gentle, patient, and kind man who instilled those traits in his children and grandchildren. He also loved the Oregon State Beavers and long bike rides, especially with his good friend and college roommate, Jim.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Claude Elmore and Patrick Wade.  He is survived by his wife, Liz Wade; children Alex Wade (Shannon Ryan) and Catherine Krafft (Kris Krafft); and his four perfect grandchildren, Nora, Jonny, Abigail, and Annelise. Michael is also survived by his siblings, Tricia Brookshire, Linda Garkow Davis, Karen Woodward, and John Garkow, several nieces and nephews, and a strong community of friends.Memorial donations may be made to Friends of Portland Community Gardens or to a charity of your choice.   A celebration of Michael’s life will be held in early spring.