Richard F. "Dick" Wilder

1942 - 2012

Richard F. "Dick" Wilder obituary, 1942-2012, Homosassa, FL

BORN

1942

DIED

2012

FUNERAL HOME

Wilder Funeral Home

4890 South Suncoast Blvd

Homosassa, Florida

Richard Wilder Obituary

Richard F. "Dick" Wilder, 69, of Homosassa, Fla., passed away Aug. 21, 2012, at his home.
A native of Lecanto, Fla., he was born Sept. 19, 1942, to William and Catherine (Allen) Wilder, one of six children. Mr. Wilder grew up in Citrus County as a boy and played football on the very first Junior Varsity team at Crystal River High School. He moved to St. Petersburg as a teen and began a 54-year career in funeral service with Lee Williams Funeral Home in St. Petersburg, washing cars, serving with the ambulance crew, or wherever he was needed. Dick attended the Kentucky School of Mortuary Science in Louisville, Ky., and graduated in 1967. In 1975, Dick moved to Homosassa Springs and established Wilder Funeral Home, where he worked until the day of his passing, a Citrus County career that spanned 37 years. He had resided in Sugarmill Woods for the past 20 years and was a member of the Springs Lodge F&AM, where he served for a number of years as its secretary. He was of the Baptist faith and was an avid Bobby Bowden and Florida Seminoles fan. His many associations in Citrus County included Homosassa Springs Chamber of Commerce, Lions Club, Kiwanis Club, Shriners Club, Rotary International and Citrus County Cattleman's Association. Dick was one the founding fathers of Chassahowitzka Baptist Church, which later evolved into Faith Baptist Church. Dick Wilder was known countywide as a man who always gave more than he received and contributed to many local organizations, especially Little League and soccer, and even coached his daughters on their softball team when they were young. Mr. Wilder sponsored many Citrus County bowling leagues over the years.
He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Lynn Wilder, Homosassa; daughter, Donna Guinn (Rodney), Ocala; daughter, Dina Baird (Walter), Ocala; daughter, Mitzi Patrick (Darrell), Crystal River; daughter, Gina Ingram (Casey); brother, Robert Wilder, Ocala; sister, Katie Rehnke, St. Petersburg; sister-in-law, Doris Wilder, Brooksville; grandchildren, Madison, Ian, Daniel, Joshua, Ethan and Tyler; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Dick was preceded in death by three siblings, William, Walter and Florida Ann.
A Celebration of Life service will take place at
11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 25, at Gulf to Lake Baptist Church, Crystal River, with pastors Lloyd Bertine and Laverle Coats. Interment will follow at Magnolia Cemetery, Lecanto. Friends will be received from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 24, at Wilder Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to either Hospice of Citrus County or the Shriners Club. www.wilderfuneral.com.

Published by Citrus County Chronicle from Aug. 23 to Aug. 24, 2012.
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Memories and Condolences
for Richard Wilder

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I know that Dick is watching over you all still and I can't believe how time has past but Dick is still missed as if was only yesterday . God Bless and until we all meet again
CindyDavis

Cindy Davis Homosassa SpringsFlorist

Coworker

August 17, 2019

Dear Lyn - I was pleased to have known Dick through my work with him as a chaplain for hospice. I will always remember the long rides to Bushnell and back, during which we talked about the beautiful Florida woods and great southern cooking that is so hard to find today! He loved this place so much! He was a genuine, giving, gentle man and will be sorely missed by all. God's peace be with you and your family.

Sheryle Lyman

September 26, 2012

After going through some old photo's, Dick, I ran across pictures of the beautiful Christmas Clergy Luncheons we used to have and I just had to thank you for all those wonderful years I worked for you. I met so many wonderful people. You will be truly missed by all of us who worked with you all those years. Your loving friend always. Pat

Patricia Thomas

September 3, 2012

I will always remember the soft, quiet voice that was always in the background whenever anyone was in need. He done so much for people & especially our family never expecting anything in return. He was a caring, giving man & I will miss you, Dick.
Ann Johnson

August 30, 2012

We miss you greatly!!! Thank you for all you did for me when you didn't have to!! Thank you for coming into my life and helping make me who I am today!! You made me a better daughter, mother, wife, nurse, & friend!! You taught me to go that extra mile to help people that needed it and expect nothing in return!! It was just in us!! Thank you most of all for taking care of my mom and sister ! Thank you for sending us signs today that you are watching over us!! Mom , Gina & I felt them today !! We love you!!!

Mitzi

August 30, 2012

I worked with Dick at Wilder Funeral Home as a young man in 1984. He taught me many things about funeral service. Dick was so nice and caring. I went on to attend mortuary school and eventually became a funeral director. I've been in funeral service now for 28 years. Every family I help gets a little bit of the passion and influence that Dick Wilder instilled in me. Thanks Dick for giving me a good start in a great profession.

Mike McDaniel

August 29, 2012

I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to your family. I worked with Dick for many years both at the Fountains and through Fero. I always found him to be the true definition of a gentleman. He truly was compassionate with every family he delt with. I know he will be missed greatly. Renee Vitale

August 27, 2012

Donna Guinn

August 26, 2012

Donna Guinn

August 26, 2012

Donna Guinn

August 26, 2012

Donna Guinn

August 26, 2012

Donna Guinn

August 26, 2012

Donna Guinn

August 26, 2012

Donna Guinn

August 26, 2012

Donna Guinn

August 26, 2012

Donna Guinn

August 26, 2012

Donna Guinn

August 26, 2012

Remembering all the good times. You had such a positive presence in our lifes. We are comforted by all the comments and stories about you from all your friends, family and people you served as a Director. You were always there for us. We love and miss you. Your daughter Donna

Donna Guinn

August 26, 2012

Loving Thoughts & Prayers Lifted for You and Your Family. Many thanks for All the Love & Cares He & Your family shared in so many of our lives .

Sams Family

August 25, 2012

Dear Lynn and family, We were shocked to learn of Dick's death this morning from Barry Boulerice when he stopped by. Please know how sorry we are for your loss. We remember all the good times we spent together. It is ourside our ability to attend Dick's Service today but will be there in spirit.
God Bless in your time of need, Gary, Arline, & Shirley Searles.

Gary Searles

August 25, 2012

Dear Lynn and family, we were so sorry to just hear this morning of Dick's passing. Arline is working today and I have to stay with mom following her oral surgery yesterday but our prayers are with you all and we will be with you at the funeral in spirit. Love, Gary, Arline, & Shirley Searles.

Gary Searles

August 25, 2012

We are extremely sorry to hear of Mr. Wilder's passing. Our prayers and thoughts are with all the family. He will be missed dearly, not only by his family , but all that knew him. God be with you. Joanne Barnwell & my son Keith Barnwell, Crystal River,Fl.

August 24, 2012

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Dick helped our family with such compassion & caring several times. His gentle ways will be missed.

Bob & Carol Parrott

August 24, 2012

Lynn and family, I am so sorry for you loss. He was a great man. And did an awesome job during my losses. He will be greatly missed. Prayers for you all.

Margaret (Margo) Freeman

August 24, 2012

Dick, it!s been a long time, and we became friends as son as you opened Wilder funeral home. Thanks for all you!ve done, you have made lot!s of people happy.Jim Sanders

August 24, 2012

TO THE WILDER FAMILY, MAY GOD GIVE YOU COMFORT AND KNOW THAT DICK IS WITH GOD . HE WILL BE DEARLY MISSED BY EVERYONE THAT HE HAS TOUCHED . HE HAS BEEN A GOOD FRIEND , I WORKED WITH DICK AND STAFF FOR MANY YEARS {HOMOSASSA SPRINGS FLORIST)
. GOD ONLY WANTS THE BEST !

CINDY DAVIS

August 24, 2012

May you Rest in peace Mr. Wilder,your kindness and compassion you showed my family and me through the years will never be forgotten.you were a wonderful man.Sincerely,Micky Venuto and family Our deepest sympathy to your family

August 24, 2012

Donna & Dina, My thoughts,prayers, & love are with you as you grieve the loss of your father. He was a good & decent man & you both were "the apple of his eye". He was very proud of you & loved you very much. The Lord will give you strength through this time & surround you with His love. Lovingly, Your Mom

August 24, 2012

Lynn, our love and prayers to you and all your family. Dick was a great friend.God be with you all at this difficult time

Bill & Inez Minshall

August 24, 2012

Lynn, my second mother,
I want to wrap my arms around you and squeeze you tightly. I can only imagine how you are feeling. We all know what a great man Dick was; his compassion to others and commitment to his work and family is worthy of honor.

To all of his children and grandchildren,
Your father/grandfather may have left you in person but, the special memories you created together will live on in your hearts and in the hearts of all those he touched – like me.

All my love and prayers are with you always.

Jamie Songy

August 24, 2012

Lynn,our love and prayers are with you and all your family at this diffficult time. Dick was a great friend. God be with you.

Bill & Inez Minshall

August 24, 2012

Dick will be missed always. He was such a humble person and caring. He is now in God's embrace where he belongs.......God Bless.

Marlene Williams

August 24, 2012

I am so sorry for your loss... I worked with Mr. Dick and he was a great funeral director and a greater man......Ty Carter

August 24, 2012

Lynn, there are no words to ease your loss, so I will not try. Dick and you were always special to me, and cherished by all whoever crossed his path. He will always occupy a very special place in my heart ! May be Blessed by All, and I pray to Creator for your Spirit to be eased knowing how much he loved you and his family. I send love and hugs your way and will see you Saturday.

Darlene Holland-Hayter

August 24, 2012

Josephine Bowen (Grandmother, great) and Richard Bowen offer their heart felt condolences and deepest sorrow to all of the Dick Wilder family. May the Lord comfort, strengthen and uplift you all during this time of grief. Dick was a wonderful, loving, tender-hearted man and he will be greatly missed.

Josephine Bowen

August 23, 2012

Lynn and family, I don't believe I ever met Dick but I send my sympathy and lots of love and prayers to you and the girls. Stay strong.
if it's any consolation I've been there and I know God will give you strength.

Nancy Lemley

August 23, 2012

Lynn & family. Our deepest sympathy. Dick was a good friend of ours and valued business associate - of my Parents (Homosassa Springs Florist). Lynn our Bryce is now 16 and driving. Dick will be missed. Prayers.

Leslie (Josey) Frohlich

August 23, 2012

My deepest sympathies! I can not tell you how much I have appreciated Dick's compassion dealing with our family. He and his staff have been with us through the loss of my father and the recent loss of my brother. My mother has valued Dick's friendship and compassion. She was heart broken when I had to tell her today about this loss. The family is definitely in all our prayers.

Christine Hall

August 23, 2012

It's a very sad day for all of us who knew Dick, and words alone could never be enough. To know Dick was one of the few great pleasures in life, and although I will miss him, there will always be wonderful memories.

Jim Gilchriese

August 23, 2012

To the Family of Mr. Wilder and the Staff of Wilder Funeral Home. Dick Wilder was one of the best men that I have ever known, sincere and kind, he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. May God hold you close during your time of loss Mrs. Lynn and kids. You are in our prayers.

Jeffrey S. Wilkinson

August 23, 2012

Mrs. Wilder, I wish to express my deepest sorrow for your loss. Only a few hours before his passing our family was with him making final arrangements for my mother. My family was the last family he helped through our sorrowful time. I truly 'never' met a man with so much thoughtfulness and compassion as he. God bless you and your family forever.

Judy Hemer

August 23, 2012

Lynn, Donna and family. I don't know if you remember me but Dick was a good friend to me when I lived in Homosassa. Sympathy to all the family and many blessings. Donna-- we did ceramics together years and years ago. God Bless.

Trudy Lenhard-Mansfield

August 23, 2012

Donna - Praying for you and your family. May God give you, Dina and all your Dad's family the strength and comfort you all need at this time. Love you. Lisa Ortiz

Lisa Ortiz

August 23, 2012

It can be so hard to face the first year without your loved one, but the love of family and friends can carry you through.

Billy and Paula Booth

August 23, 2012

Dick was a true gentleman and always treated his coworkers with the utmost respect. He was always calm and easygoing. He will be greatly missed by all of us who worked with him.

Lisa High

August 23, 2012

I met Dick in May of this year as a work colleague. During this short period of time I recognized what a great person he was. Everyone within our workforce has high regards for him. I also heard how the community put their trust in him in numerous ways. We will certainly miss him.

Letty Howard

August 23, 2012

Lynn. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this sad time. Dick was a very caring, compassionate person and will be truly missed. Pat and family

Pat Thomas

August 23, 2012

Donna, so sorry to here about Dad..he will always be in your heart..if you need anything I am here. Dotty

August 23, 2012

Dick was the nicest, sweetest man you could ever meet. He always went out of his way to say something nice, and truly cared when he said "How are you doing" The funeral industry has lost a shining star. I will miss his voice and his smile.
Virginia Howard-Forest Lawn Funeral Home

August 23, 2012

THE LORD HAS CALLED REST IN PEACE

LINDA HOOD

August 23, 2012

I only met Mr. Wilder a couple of times. He was a long time friend of my Dads. When my Mother passed away unexpectedly almost a year ago he was so kind and helpful to our family. Whatever we asked he did, no questions and so respectful of our feelings at the time. My Dad, as well as the community in general has lost a great man. Mrs. Wilder and family I am so sorry for your loss. Our prayers will be with you as you lay this loved one to rest. Cherish the memories. God Bless.

Cindy Faul-Mikell

August 23, 2012

I am saddened to hear about Dick's death. He was so kind and helpful to me and my family when he conducted the funeral of my husband,Charles H. Allen.
He will be missed in all of Citrus County.My condolences to his family.

Mrs. Charles H.(Shirley) Allen

August 23, 2012

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

Staff of Wilder Funeral Home

August 23, 2012

I extend my sincerest condolences and prayers to all of Dick's family. He was a very kind man and it was a privelege to work with him on many funerals over the past 5 years. May God grant him eternal happiness!

Rev. Ronald Marecki

August 23, 2012

What a blessing Dick was to my family and me. He was truly a compassionate, sweet person. He and my husband, the former "Preacher Bob" Miller had a great relationship as they worked together with services. Bob had much respect for Dick. I'll never forget how gracious Dick was when Bob passed in March of this year. He was a God-send! He will truly be missed in Citrus County! May God bless you, his family and comfort you through this difficult time. Lynn Miller

Lynn Miller

August 23, 2012

I will miss you Mr. Wilder.

Sherry Jennings

August 23, 2012

Lynn, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Praying God will give each one of you extra strength, as you walk through these difficult days.

Shon Jones

August 23, 2012

Donna, So sorry for your loss. This was a shock. I was at the funeral for Fred Wheeler last month and visited with your Dad for quiet awhile. He was a good friend. We will miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family

David Clements

August 23, 2012

We will miss Dick dearly. He was such a wonderful man and good friend. Keeping your family in my prayers.

Lettie Riley

August 23, 2012

Dad, I miss you so much and wish we had more time together. Love, Donna

Donna Guinn

August 23, 2012

Rosemary Green

August 23, 2012

lynne and family i truly love you so much and want you to know this whole family of true friends is with you in grief. he truly will be missed by many.

judith williams/ trombly

August 23, 2012

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