Gerald R. Wildman 1918-2009

Article Photos

GUSTAVUS - Gerald R. Wildman, 91, died Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009, at Windsor House at Champion.

He was born Sept. 22, 1918, in Mesopotamia, a son of Robert B. and Myrtle J. Sprague Wildman.

Mr. Wildman was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Navy. He served as a trainer for the LST Landing Craft amphibious group for the invasion of Normandy.

A resident of Gustavus Township since 1953, Mr. Wildman owned and operated a dairy farm. He was a member of Gustavus Federated Church, where he served as a trustee.

He was an active member of his community, having served fifteen years on the Trumbull County Soil and Water Conservation Board, where he was past president. He was a member of the Farm Bureau Council, the Trumbull County Farm Bureau and the Ashtabula Wagon Train Association. Mr. Wildman was a member and past master of the Gustavus Grange; and member of the Pomona Grange. He enjoyed his family and dancing, was passionate about his horses, covered wagons and trail riding and loved to travel.

Mr. Wildman is survived by his wife, Frances J. (Swager) Wildman, whom he married April 26, 1937, of Gustavus; his daughter, Janice E. Wildman of Belfair, Wash.; his four sons, Rodger G. (Nancy) Wildman of Gustavus, Roland H. (Sandy) Wildman of Gustavus, Gary C. (Linda) Wildman of Germantown, Tenn., and Denny R. (Beth) Wildman of Gustavus; one sister, Ilda I. Fenstermaker of Bristolville; 17 grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Doris McDowell.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at Gustavus Federated Church, 8850 state Route 193, Gustavus Township, with the Rev. Karl Bucey officiating. Burial will follow in Gustavus Cemetery.

Calling hours will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Baumgardner Funeral Home, 8569 Main St., Kinsman.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Gustavus Federated Church, PO Box 5, Farmdale, OH 44417.

Guestbook available at www.baumgardnerfuneralhome.com.

(special notice)