Jerry T. "Jake" Wildes

Jerry T. “Jake” Wildes, age 71, of Poland, OH was called home November 2, 2024, surrounded by those he loved. He was born October 6, 1953, to the late Jerry T. Wildes, Sr, and Helen D. (DiLullo) Wildes.

Jerry was a steady presence who somehow made life feel safer, lighter, fuller, and definitely more fun.  He brought so much love and laughter into all our lives and losing him feels like we have lost a part of our story, our history, and it has created a void that cannot be filled.

He was an incredible father. On December 30, 1980, he became a dad for the first and only time in his life. His daughter, Casey Lynn meant the world to him, and he to her. He loved being a dad and showed up for every milestone, every good day, and every bad day, and all the moments in-between with unwavering support.  He loved her so much and remained the rock in her life until he was called home. So much of Casey is her father in many ways and he continues to live on through her. Knowing we will have glimpses of his life and legacy moving forward feels like a gift. He will also live on through his grandchildren. On August 26, 2012, his first grandchild was born – Jake, named after his grandfather, became his new best friend. The bond between them was immediate and inseparable. They spent more time together than they ever did apart, and he took on yet another name – “Papa” One of his most special names yet. They were the truest of friends and have created memories together that will last a lifetime. On November 6, 2023, his second grandson, Greyson, was born and was blessed to have known his grandfather’s love for the first year of his life. We look forward to telling him stories and he grows so he too can know what a special man his “Papa” was and how much he loved him.

Jerry’s world revolved around family, and his life was built alongside his wife of forty-nine years, Kelly (Cavanaugh) Wildes. They were high school sweethearts, falling in love at only sixteen years old and spending the last fifty-four years building a family and a home together filled with love, countless memories, and family gatherings.

Jerry was one of those rare souls who made you feel instantly at home, and he left a mark on everyone who knew him. He had a soft spot for the vulnerable – for dogs, the elderly, and especially for children who needed a “Papa” in their lives. The feelings were mutual because every child and animal who met him gravitated towards him immediately, feeling loved and at home in his presence. He was strong and protective.

His absence will be deeply felt, and there will never be anyone who could fill his shoes. He was a force of goodness in this world, and we are so grateful to have shared this life with him.

In addition to his wife, Kelly, and daughter Casey (Christopher Carson), he leaves behind two grandsons, Jake, and Greyson; sisters, June Lewis (Jeff Jackson), Joyce (Glenn) Wilson, Janice Yoakam (John Branch); brother, Jeff Wildes; sisters-in-law, Sherry (Jim) Fee and Kathy (John) LaMantia;  many nieces, nephews as well as Jake’s father, Adam Englebaugh.

Jerry requested no funeral nor service. In lieu of flowers, we invite you to honor Jerry’s memory by donating either your time or resources to an animal shelter or senior home. He had a special place in his heart for those who needed love and care, and we know he would be touched to see kindness spread in his name. He would love nothing more than to know that others are being blessed because of him.

Arrangements by Cremation & Funeral Service by Gary S Silvat Inc. Share memories and send condolences by visiting cremateohio.com.

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