Donald WILDENHAUS Obituary

WILDENHAUS,

Donald James

Donald James Wildenhaus, 67, of Centerville, OH, unexpectedly passed away on Thursday,

October 15, 2020, while vacationing in Nevada with his wife. He was born September 25, 1953, in Dayton, OH, to

Walter B. and Mary (Orf)

Wildenhaus. He is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years Paula (Hanes) Wildenhaus; his two daughters Jessica Rose (Joshua) and Holly Stull (Chad) and four grandchildren; Stella, Violet, Georgia and Knox. He is also survived by four brothers; William, Mark (Kelly), Timothy, and Norman, his brother-in-law Gary (Joyce) Hanes, along with

numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, his infant sister Mary Theresa, and two brothers Walter "Joe" (Gary Benbow) and Michael.

He was a terrific brother, loving husband, great father and an incredible grandfather "Poppy".

He had the most amazing smile, a personality that would fill the room and the quickest wit. He was a wonderful friend to so many and never knew a stranger.

He was a member of the Centerville Noon Optimist Club, where he enjoyed volunteering. It was through his involvement with the Optimist Club that he found his calling with the South Dayton T.O.P. Soccer program, even becoming the director for a few years. Some of his greatest enjoyment was coaching and helping the players.

While never trying to win the race, he was a constant participant in the Centerville Americana 5k, running the race for the last 30 years.

He loved great food, German beer, travel, reading, music and all the local festivals, especially the German ones. He was an avid Buckeye fan and a great supporter of the Flyers.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the T.O.P. Soccer DW Memorial Fund via gofundme.

A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Dayton Daily News on Oct. 25, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Donald WILDENHAUS

8 Entries

Deb

December 14, 2020

Paula, So sorry for your loss. I loved seeing Don’s smiling face. He helped with so many of my clients. It really is heartbreaking.
Deb Westendorf

Joe Willhoite

November 28, 2020

I remember Don running the 5 k at the Centerville Americana festival. I ran it probably 8-10 consecutive years. He did too. That big giant teddy bear lumbered that 5 k course as often as I did, and maybe at a faster pace. I was in awe at how he pushed that Hoss Cartwright body. We worked together every fall for 10-15 years with developmentally handicapped adults in a TOPS soccer program. He was a big teddy bear full of laughter, compassion and humanity. He demonstrated the best of the human spirit. He gave of himself for the betterment of others. My heart hurt today when I learned of his passing. Of all of the COVID restrictions, this is the worst, that I can't stand publicly with others and lament the sorrow at the loss of a great human role model. The world was a better place when you were here. God bless you, Don Wildenhaus.

Chris Keilholz

November 27, 2020

So sorry for your loss. We were all so lucky to know Don. It was too early for sure. A great man!!! The best!!! Love and hugs through the holidays. You are a strong family and just remember the great memories!!!!!

Sally Coberly-Hough

October 31, 2020

I'm so sorry for your loss. The last time I saw Don, was at Costco. He said he was in charge of dinner that night. Then I saw the rotisserie chicken in his cart, and then we both laughed. He always had a smile and I could always tell that he loved life.

With deepest sympathy.
Sally Coberly-Hough

Sally Coberly-Hough

October 31, 2020

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Joe Westendorf

October 28, 2020

I just found Don has passed away! I went to grade school and high school with his older brother Mike and liked to be with all his brothers. Don had one of the best personalities of anyone I've known.
My deepest sympathy to Paula and her family
Joe Westendorf, Venice FL

Brennan, Tina and Tyler Acres

October 27, 2020

The Acres family cannot begin to express the impact Coach Don had on us. He always had a smile for our Tyler and made each soccer game special. The Hot Wheels team is forever grateful for his kindness. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and friends.

Normajean Roselius

October 26, 2020

I don’t think I ever saw Don without that big old smile on his face. He was always laughing and joking around. He was so wonderful with all the kids at T.O.P. Soccer. Melissa could never wait to see him. She loved to tease him and give him a hard time. Such a wonderful man. He will surely be missed.

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