Beloved Community Member Wade Gluyas Passes Away at 66

Wade Alexander Gluyas, a cherished member of his community, passed away on October 20, 2024, after enduring a prolonged struggle with kidney and liver failure. Born on August 14, 1958, in Santa Ana, California, Wade was the only son of George and Bette Gluyas and was known for his unwavering kindness and generous spirit.

Wade graduated from Rancho Alamitos High School and later pursued further education at ITT Technical School, attending various community college classes driven by his love for learning. He was characterized by his gentle demeanor, often described as a “big teddy bear” by those close to him. Wade’s warmth was reflected in his ever-present smile and jolly laugh, which endeared him to many.

Throughout his life, Wade was a source of support for his family. He remained close to his mother, sisters, and nephew, taking on responsibilities such as running errands and caring for his parents until their deaths in 2005. After losing family members, he moved to Visalia, California, to live with his sister Beth and brother-in-law Gary, where he continued to be a loving presence.

Wade’s generosity extended beyond his immediate family. He had a unique ability to connect with those around him, often expressing concern for others, despite his struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). This condition sometimes made it challenging for him to form deeper connections, yet he never wavered in his desire to help others.

His passions included fishing trips with his father and sister, Leslie, and sharing light-hearted moments with his sister, Becky. Wade also enjoyed exploring and discussing imaginative ideas with his childhood friend, Chris, often dreaming of adventures in Alaska and beyond. Although these plans never materialized, they were a testament to Wade’s rich imagination and love for storytelling.

In the kitchen, Wade was known as a “foodie,” creating unique dishes often accompanied by generous amounts of sour cream, hot sauce, and mayonnaise. His culinary experiments might not have been universally appealing, but they were a reflection of his playful nature.

Wade’s legacy of kindness continued even in his final days. He displayed remarkable bravery in facing his health challenges, often expressing concern for how his family was coping. In a final act of generosity, he chose to donate parts of his body to the Donor Network, encouraging others to consider organ donation for the benefit of those in need.

Wade will be laid to rest alongside his parents and sister, Becky, at the Murrieta Valley Cemetery in Murrieta, California. A graveside service is scheduled for November 3 at 13:00. Those who knew him will remember Wade Gluyas not only for his gentle spirit but also for the light he brought into the lives of others. As his family reflects on his life, they express a collective sentiment that the world feels a little dimmer without him, yet believe that heaven is now a bit brighter.