James J. “Jake” Wade, 86, of Medford, originally from Somerville, passed away peacefully on June 29th. Born in Boston, Massachusetts on October 19, 1935, he was the son of the late Edward and Margaret (Callahan) Wade.
Raised in Somerville, he was a graduate of Malden Catholic High School Class of 1953 and Northeastern University Class of 1959. Proudly served two years in the U.S. Army. Later returned to Northeastern as a faculty member, assistant football coach, and active member of the Alumni Association and Varsity Club.
Jake’s many endeavors included work as a salesman for Schlitz beer, mail handler for the U.S. Postal Service, union official for Mail Handlers Local 301, chain crew member for the New England Patriots during the Sullivan years, high school football referee for the Association of New England Football Officials, and usher for the Baltimore Orioles during spring training in Florida.
Passionate about football, he played for Malden Catholic, the South Boston Chippewas during their 1958 Park League championship year, and forhis regiment in the Army while serving in Germany. If not playing, he could be found coaching, refereeing, measuring downs, working the clock, and later in life, cheering for (and offering wisdom to) his beloved grandson.
Jake enjoyed travelling, including to his father’s birthplace in Newfoundland and to his mother’s birthplace in County Cork, Ireland. He loved the ocean, live music and entertainment, reading, bragging about and happily sharing his tomato harvest, annual trips to Saratoga Springs, and gatherings with friends from all walks of life. He was a member of the Elks, Knights of Columbus, Somerville City Club, and Malden Irish American Club.
Along with his parents, Jake is predeceased by his brother John Wade. He leaves behind loving daughters Teresa “Terri” Wade of Attleboro and Colleen Wade of Mansfield. Proud and devoted grandfather of Christian James “CJ” Farmer. Also survived by his brother Edward Wade, numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Predeceased by friend and former wife, Theresa Wade. Jake will be missed for his engaging conversations, clever wit, loyalty to friends and family, and for his hearty laugh.
Calling Hours will be held at Doherty’s Funeral Home, 855 Broadway, (Powder House Square) Somerville on Thursday, July 7th
from 4:00-7:00pm.
A funeral Mass, to which relatives and friends are cordially invited, will be celebrated at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 262 Washington Street, Somerville, on Friday, July 8th at 11:00am.
Internment at Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne to be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Jake’s name to The Fund for Malden Catholic, c/o Malden Catholic High School, 99 Crystal St., Malden, MA 02148 or to New England Center and Home for Veterans, PO Box 961500 Boston, MA 02109. Veteran of United States Army.
Special thanks to the entire staff of the Branches of North Attleboro, and to Beacon Hospice and nurse Molly Pomarico, who together showed kindness, compassion, and exceptional care to both Jake and to his family.