News Summary
Barbara Wade, a beloved member of the Anaheim Hills community and dedicated philanthropist, passed away peacefully at the age of 92. Known for her vibrant spirit, Barbara significantly contributed to local initiatives, notably Operation School Bell. Surrounded by family, she leaves behind three sons and her adored granddaughter. Services will be held at Canyon Hills Presbyterian Church, honoring her legacy of love and generosity.
Anaheim Hills
Barbara Wade, a cherished member of the community and well-known philanthropist, passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on July 18, 2025, at her home in Anaheim Hills, California. She was surrounded by her loving family at the time of her passing.
Born on April 15, 1933, in Claremont, California, Barbara was the first daughter and second child of William and Catherine Schrink. She graduated from Claremont High School where she met her future husband, William R. Wade. The couple married in 1952 and welcomed their first son, Gregory, later that year, followed by two more sons, Michael in 1955 and Scott in 1959.
The Wade family initially settled in Whittier, California, where her husband worked at Alpha Beta Markets. In 1982, they relocated to Salt Lake City, Utah, due to Bill’s job with the Alpha Beta Company. It was during their time in Salt Lake City that Barbara and Bill discovered a shared love for skiing. Following Bill’s retirement in 1989, they traveled extensively across the United States and Canada in their RV, a hobby they greatly enjoyed.
Barbara was a devoted grandmother who cherished her granddaughter, Megan, showering her with love and attention. Beyond her family life, Barbara was passionate about various interests including movies, theater, golf, and entertaining guests in her home.
Barbara’s extensive community service included active involvement with the Assistance League (AL) of Whittier and later with the AL of Anaheim. She contributed significantly to Operation School Bell in Anaheim, an initiative aimed at providing clothing and essential supplies to children in need. Her dedication to the cause earned her an honoree award from the Assistance League of Anaheim in 2012, which she shared with her best friend, Eileen Pauley.
She was preceded in death by her husband, William R. Wade; her parents; and her brother, William Schrink. She is survived by her three sons, Gregory, Michael, and Scott (and his partner Vickie), along with her beloved granddaughter, Megan.
Funeral services will take place on Saturday, August 16, at 11:00 AM at Canyon Hills Presbyterian Church, located at 190 S Fairmont Blvd, Anaheim Hills, California. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Assistance League of Anaheim to support Operation School Bell.
The family expresses their heartfelt gratitude towards Barbara’s caregivers for their unwavering dedication and compassionate care during her final days.
Barbara Wade is fondly remembered for her vibrant spirit, generosity, and the joy she brought into the lives of everyone she encountered.
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Additional Resources
- OC Register: Barbara Wade Obituary
- Wikipedia: Anaheim Hills
- Legacy: Deborah Wade Obituary
- Google Search: Barbara Wade Anaheim Hills
- Wade Family Funeral Home: Benson Berry Phillips
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Philanthropy
- Tukios: Barbara Wade Memorial
- Google News: Operation School Bell
- Los Angeles Times: Lives Lost in California
- Google Scholar: Community Service
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
