Wilbur Wade Larson Jr., fondly known as Wade, passed away on Jan. 4, at the age of 79. Wade was born on Sept. 23, 1946, in Marshfield, Wisc. He built a life defined by curiosity, creativity, and deep devotion to the people he loved.
Wade grew up on a farm in Spencer, Wisc., and later moved with his family to Jefferson, where he attended high school. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin, Madison with a degree in nuclear engineering, where he met the love of his life, Judy Ann Strackany of Elgin, Ill. They married in San Francisco, lived there briefly, and eventually settled in Wayland, where they built their home, raised their family, and grew their business.
Wade was the founder and visionary leader of Engineering Planning and Management, a nuclear power plant safety company. Through his work, he helped establish national and international safety standards, leaving a lasting legacy in public safety and the nuclear industry. Over the decades with EPM, Wade touched the lives of nearly 1,200 employees and their families, hosting memorable Christmas parties, picnics, and events that fostered a culture of connection and family.
Family was at the heart of Wade’s life. He took great pride in his children and treasured time spent together, coaching football, teaching them to ski, snorkel, scuba dive, and golf. He especially loved family trips to the mountains and the Caribbean. Drawn to warm weather, Wade and Judy eventually made Vero Beach, Fla., their winter home, a welcoming place where family could gather. Time spent there with his cherished grandchildren brought him immense joy.
Wade will be remembered for the deep love he had for his family, especially his wife, Judy, and for the inspiration, generosity, humor, and wisdom he shared with all who knew him. We will also remember his remarkable ability to celebrate life.
Wade is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Judy; his four children: Tait Larson (Abigail), Bradford Larson (Laura), Carolyn Balmages (Benjamin), and Jessica Larson; 11 grandchildren: Audrey, William, Thea, Leah, Wyatt, Grant, Lillian, Charlotte, Sarah, June, and Grace; and his brothers, Elliott and Gary Larson.
A service was held on Jan. 10 at Sudbury United Methodist Church. Wade is interred at North Cemetery in Wayland. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the University of Wisconsin, Nuclear Engineering Department or Sudbury United Methodist Church.
Wilbur W. Larson, 79
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