Daniel Carl Wilder Sr. (72) of Port Angeles, WA went to his heavenly home on Friday, July 9, 2021. He died of complications from a surgery at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, WA. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather; a life-long friend to many; a respected businessman; and most importanly—a devoted follower of Jesus Christ.

Dan Sr. was born on September 14, 1948 in Denver, Colorado to Velma and Carl Wilder. His family then moved to southern California where Dan spent his childhood years. As a pre-teen he moved north to Chico, California. It was there that he met the love of his life, Sally (his wife of 56 years), while they were both students in jr. high.

Dan and Sally started "going steady" at age 14, and he affectionately called her his "brown- eyed girl." They were married in 1965 at the age of 16—the start of a beautiful, lasting love story. Soon after, they started attending a small church in Sacramento where they both decided to commit their lives to Christ. Oh, what a glorious day that was! And one that would change the course of their lives forever.

Dan began his career in the car business in 1966 as a parts delivery driver. He attended Corban University in Salem, OR from 1970-1974. In 1977 he had the opportunity to move to Port Angeles to buy a car dealership. At age 28, he became the second youngest Volkswagen dealer in the US. In time he built up Wilder Auto & RV to employ 120 team members. Dan truly loved being in the car business, and he always thought of his Wilder team as family, some of whom have worked with him for over 35 years.

Dan faithfully attended Independent Bible Church in Port Angeles where he served on the IBC Church Elder Board for 38 years. His faith in God was his first priority, followed closely by the priority to care for his family. His life verse was Colossians 3:17, "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." He loved people sincerely and made friends wherever he went—sharing the love of Christ with all those he met. He was a great listener who always wanted to know your life story.

As a loving father and grandfather, he modeled God's grace and generosity in countless ways. His favorite place to be was anywhere he was surrounded by family. Dan got so much joy from spoiling his grandchildren who affectionately called him their "Pop." He shared his love for travel and for sports—especially football as he was an avid LA Rams fan.

Dan is survived by the love of his life, Sally Wilder; sister, Evelyn Bond; daughter, Tami (Dale) Rose; son, Dan Jr. (Jodi) Wilder; grandchildren, Britt (T.J.) McConahay, Boe (Kennedy) Brodhun, Carson Wilder, Karli Wilder, Sean (Sarah) Rose, and Ryan Rose; and eight beloved great- grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his father, Carl Wilder; mother, Velma Wilder; and his two older brothers, Charles "Chuck" and John Wilder.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held for Dan at Independent Bible Church at 116 E. Ahlvers Rd in Port Angeles at 3:00PM on Sunday, August 15th. Dress is casual.

In leiu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Olympic Peninsula. Mail to: PO Box 4167 Sequim, WA 98382. Note: Port Angeles Clubhouse on your check if you'd like the donation to go to the Port Angeles location.