Ralph Wilde

Ralph Patrick Wilde, 73, of Rushford, NY (formerly of Buffalo, NY), passed away on September 4th, 2023 at Sisters of Charity Hospital, after a brief illness. Mr. Wilde was a graduate of Cardinal O'Hara High School in 1968, and received his bachelor's degree from the State University of Buffalo in 1972. He was employed as a Special Education teacher in Buffalo Public Schools for his entire career of over 30 years. A pioneer in many things, Mr. Wilde was the first man in the City of Buffalo to take child care leave and care for his young daughter. He was a dedicated advocate for his students, with whom he had lifelong relationships.

In addition to his love of teaching, Mr. Wilde was an enthusiastic collector, an avid reader, and he enjoyed refinishing antiques. His generosity was largely unknown to most, through his quiet and anonymous gifts and acts of kindness throughout his life. Upon retirement, he and his wife Nancy enjoyed world traveling, with memorable trips to Africa, South America, the Caribbean, and throughout the entirety of the United States. Of all the sights they saw throughout the years, his favorite view was from the deck of their cabin in Rushford, NY, where he and Nancy were married under the birch trees in the front yard 47 years ago.

Mr. Wilde is survived by his loving wife, Nancy (VanName) Wilde, his daughter Rosemary (John) Luciano, and his two beautiful grandchildren Sophia and Joey. "Pat", as he was known by his five surviving siblings, was deeply loved by brothers Michael Wilde, David (Pam) Wilde, Phil, and sisters Aileen (Dave) Remmes and Linda (Richard) Rosinski, and by many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his daughter Sarah, his parents Karl and Phyllis Wilde, and sisters-in-law Jane Wilde and Lawana Digirolamo.

Upon his death, Mr. Wilde had elected for his body to be donated through the Anatomical Gift Program at the University of Buffalo. This choice supports education and research, benefiting science, public health, and the greater good. He was a teacher in life, and a teacher in death.

A celebration of life will take place at a later date. Memorials can be made to The Salvation Army of Buffalo, NY (960 Main Street, Buffalo, New York 14202-1197), or the Rushford Rescue Squad (8911 Upper, Rushford, NY 14777).