Richard Allen Wade, of Hammond, Indiana passed away during the early morning hours on July 23, 2016 at the age of 68. He is a graduate of Hammond High School, Class of 1966. He is survived by his father, Dallas Wade, late mother Mary, wife, Karen (Kwaitkowski) Wade, daughters Stacy (Brian) Onofrio, Shelly Wade, grandchildren William Onofrio, Rebecca Onofrio, and R.J. Reyes, brother Robert (Shirley) Wade, and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins that he loved dearly

Rich was a lifelong resident of Hammond.  He committed his life to serving others.  Rich began his career serving our Country in the U.S. Navy.  Upon his honorable discharge, Rich, continued his life of service by joining the City of Hammond Fire Department,serving as both an EMT and Fire Fighter.  During his last nine years with the Hammond Fire Department,  Rich served as a Battalion Chief for the  Lake County Marine Unit and was proud to be one if it's original members.  During his public career, he also remained actively involved in operating the family business with his best friends, father Dallas and brother Bob. He was a member of the Indiana Harbor Yacht Club since 1992, where he currently held the Vice-Commodore position.  When not serving others, Rich served his passion for life.  He was a former stock car racer, avid boater, skier, snowmobiler, karaoke singer, Harley rider, and story teller.  He was all around great, husband, father, son, brother, grandfather and friend. He will be dearly missed by his wife Karen of 32 years, daughters, grandchildren, father, brother and all who knew him.  Rich's personality and zest for life, will leave a long lasting impression on those who knew him forever. He always gave 100% of himself to all.

Friends may meet with the family to celebrate Rich's life on Thursday, July 28th, 2016 at  St. Mary-Hildebrant Hall, located at 525 N. Lafayette Street, Griffith, Indiana, from 1 pm. to 8 pm.  Mass will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church, 525 North Broad St, Griffith, Indiana  on Friday July 29, at 10 am.  A funeral service will follow at White Funeral Home, 921 W. 45th Ave, Griffith, Indiana for friends and family at 12 noon. Burial will follow at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens in Schererville.  In lieu of flowers please donate in memory of Rich to the charity of your choice.

For more information, please call us at White Funeral Home at 219-924-4100 or visit us at www.whitefuneralhomeofgriffith.com

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