It is with deep sorrow that we share the passing of Wade Wieringa, a 48-year-old man from Nederland, whose life was marked by both joy and great personal challenges. Wade tragically passed away on March 1, 2025, after a fatal shooting, an incident which is still under investigation by local authorities. An autopsy was conducted, but the cause of death remains confidential for now.
Wade was born on May 2, 1988, and grew up on a family dairy farm in Armstrong, where he developed a deep love for exploration and discovery. His childhood was filled with countless memories, from snowboarding at Silver Star to tubing and wakeboarding on the family boat. Family trips to Hawaii, Cuba, and Disney, as well as visits to the Oregon Sand Dunes for quading and camping, were also a big part of Wade’s life. The Dunes held a special place in his heart.
Known for his intellectual curiosity, Wade excelled in school, with top grades in all his classes. He had a natural affinity for electronics and technology, often found with his friends, honing skills in gaming, music, and cameras. His love for tech led him to become the go-to “tech guy” for many in his circle.
However, Wade’s life took a challenging turn when he was diagnosed with severe late-onset schizophrenia. This illness, which stripped him of much of his adult life, was a daily struggle for Wade. Despite his hardships, those who knew him fondly remember his kindness and gentle nature. His fight with schizophrenia was a testament to his strength, and his perseverance through the ups and downs of his condition was an inspiration to those around him.
Wade’s family—his parents Jake and Cindy Wieringa, his aunt Grace Wieringa, and cousins Sarah and Meagan—are left with cherished memories of a son, nephew, and cousin who always fought for his place in the world. They express gratitude for the care and support they received from Interior Health and the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) throughout Wade’s battle.
Wade’s life story is one of resilience, compassion, and love for his family. Despite the heavy burden of his mental illness, Wade never gave up. He remained committed to his passions and found joy in the things he loved. Whether it was spending time with family, indulging in his love for technology, or simply enjoying nature, Wade’s enthusiasm for life shone through.
The news of his tragic death has left the community in shock. Those who knew Wade, whether as a friend, family member, or colleague, have expressed their sorrow, remembering the quiet strength he exhibited even in the toughest of times. His perseverance, combined with his quiet humor and gentle spirit, left a lasting impression on everyone around him.
The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA). This organization was instrumental in helping Wade manage his condition, providing support, resources, and a network for both Wade and his family. The CMHA has been a vital part of the Wieringa family’s journey, and they hope that by supporting the organization, others will receive the same assistance that helped Wade during his life.
A celebration of Wade’s life will be scheduled at a later date, providing an opportunity for family, friends, and the community to come together in his memory. The details of the event will be shared when they are finalized. It is expected to be a time for reflection, remembrance, and healing as those who loved Wade gather to honor his memory. In the meantime, the family asks for privacy as they navigate this incredibly difficult time.
Wade’s passing serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of mental health awareness. His story, though filled with struggle, is also one of determination, love, and courage. Wade’s life may have been cut short, but the impact he had on those around him will never be forgotten.
As his family, friends, and community mourn this tragic loss, they also remember the man he was—the tech enthusiast, the friend, the son, and the person who always tried to make the most out of his life despite the challenges he faced. Wade’s legacy is not one of despair, but one of persistence, kindness, and love.
Our thoughts are with Wade’s family during this incredibly difficult time. May they find comfort in their memories of him and in the knowledge that his life, though brief, made a profound difference to all who knew him. Wade Wieringa will be dearly missed, but his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
