John S. Wildes, Jr.

READING - Mr. John S. Wildes, Jr. 57, of Reading, passed away on Friday, October 23, 2020 at Lahey Medical Center in Burlington.

Born in Saugus, he was the son of the late John Wildes Sr., and Lela (Carroll) Wildes.

John attended a work training program and had been employed as a Custodian, a job he took great pride in and was dedicated to for several years.

During John’s younger years, his health emergencies often brought emergency responders to his home. He grew to have an affinity for the police and firemen who responded in his time of need. As he grew older he would visit the local police stations and firehouses to visit, emulating his hero’s and became a kind and caring man, just like those who helped him. John loved the fire trucks, police cars and motorcycles, his enthusiasm was contagious and his ever present smile endeared him to many.  He will be remembered for his love of family, as a friend to his house mates and will be deeply missed by them.

Surviving John, in addition to his mother Lela, are his sisters, Lela Hamel of Chicopee, and Mary Wildes of Springfield, his brother, David Wildes and his wife, Karen of South Carolina, his aunt’s, uncle’s and several nieces and nephews. He was also the brother of the late Carol Wildes and foster son of the late Raymond and Margaret Bailey.

ARRANGEMENTS: Relatives and friends are invited to visiting hours which will be held in the Peterson-O’Donnell Funeral Home, 167 Maple St., Danvers, MA 01923 on Thursday, October 29th from 9 to 10 A.M. Followed by his funeral service at 10:15 A.M. Burial in Oakdale Cemetery, Middleton. Expressions of sympathy may be made in John’s memory to a charity of one’s choice. All attendees are required to wear face coverings and practice social distancing. Sharing written remembrances and condolences, during this time will be essential in helping John’s family reminisce, celebrate and heal. We encourage you to share your memories by visiting his eternal tribute at www.odonnellfuneralservice.com

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