William John Wild

William John Wild died at the age of 57 on February 8, 2014 at Legacy Hopewell House Hospice in Portland, Oregon with his wife by his side. Diagnosed with lung cancer, William upheld an optimistic outlook and refused to let his illness interfere with work or community endeavors.

Born January 15, 1957 in Dubuque, Iowa, William was the third son of seven born to Robert and Patricia Wild. In his youth, William was a Squire altar server and a Boy Scout of First Class rank---achieving the Parvuli Dei Emblem. He attended Wahlert High School and was the lead percussionist in the band.

Hitchhiking to Valdez, Alaska in 1974, William drummed professionally. Two years later, he settled in Portland. William worked with the Portland Art Museum for fifteen years as Administrative Manager, responsible for managing the mailroom, purchasing, tourism and telecommunication services. William met his wife Chaunda, a fellow employee, and they married in May of 1991.

William pursued a career in the telecommunications industry, working as customer service manager and account executive for several companies, including Technocom, Inc., where William worked until his death. Throughout his career, William engaged in collegiate education as well as self-education and was a voracious reader.

A firm believer in improving his community, William actively volunteered. He donated many years to Mount Hood Festival of Jazz, Hood to Coast Race, and many arts organizations. He served on the Board of Directors for Wallace Medical Concern, Portland Chamber Orchestra, various civic boards and committees, and as Board President of the Oak Lodge Sanitary District. William was passionate about incorporating the local area into a viable self-governing city. To that end he founded and was President of Friends of Local Control.

Throughout his life, William felt the rhythm of music. Although an avid drummer, collector, and listener, his favorite music was the sounds of nature he heard during his frequent wilderness visits. Affable, open-minded, and genuinely interested in others, William made friends easily. He was described as possessing constant enthusiasm, impeccable integrity, and a visionary outlook.

William is survived by his wife, Chaunda; son, Everett; brothers, Richard, James, Anthony, John, and Joseph; likewise his parents-in-law, Winston and Susan McGee; sister-in-law, Jenny; niece, Simone, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews. William also leaves behind the many who called him friend.

The William Wild Memorial Fund has been established to commemorate William's service. To donate, visit any Key Bank or contact Karen Lotz, Manager, 14888 SE McLoughlin Blvd., Oak Grove, OR 97267. (503) 742-4967.

Special thanks to Compass Oncology staff, whose dedication enabled William to manage his fight; to Hopewell House Hospice staff, who lovingly eased William's pain in his final weeks; and to Stehn Family Chapels, who generously helped with William's memorial.