Douglas R. Wade

Douglas R. Wade, 79, beloved husband of Yvonne (Usawicz) Wade, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, after battling a severe case of Guillain-Barré Syndrome.

Doug was born February 16, 1946, in Waterbury, Connecticut, to the late Ellington and Bernadine (Carew) Wade. He was raised in Naugatuck, where he attended St. Francis Grammar School and graduated from Naugatuck High School class of 1964. He earned an engineering degree from the University of Connecticut. He had a very successful career with Northeast Utilities (NU) as an engineer and Project Manager. During his 35-year career at NU, he completed many energy conversion projects. One project he was most proud of was managing the construction of UConn’s Co-generation Utility Plant at his Alma mater. After his years with Northeast Utilities, Doug held a position as a project engineer for Alstom Power Company for 10 years.

Outside of work, Doug was an avid golfer. He always looked forward to his annual golf trip with seven of his long-time friends and former colleagues. They continued this traditional trip for 38 years. Doug was also a member of the Naugatuck Lodge of Elks B.P.O.E. 967. He enjoyed Thursday night dinners and visiting the Elks in Westbrook, CT, and Estero, FL.

Not only was Doug an amazing husband, he was a dedicated father and grandfather. Doug never missed an event, whether a sports game, dance recital, or music concert, he was there. Over the years, he coached softball, volunteered with the Boy Scouts, Indian Guides, and Indian Princesses. He had so much pride for his family. Doug just loved being with his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed planning vacations with his family, especially camping trips. In most recent years, his most quiet moments were on a beautiful sunny day, driving through the countryside in his 1971 Mercedes convertible.

Doug leaves to honor and cherish his memory, his loving wife, Yvonne (Bonnie) of 58 yrs; sons Brian Wade, Bruce Wade (Terry), and daughter Alyce Misuraca; grandchildren Parker Wade, Taylor Wade, Jamie Misuraca, Aaron Misuraca, Evan Misuraca. He is also survived by his brother Robert Wade (Linda), his nieces Lesley and Heather Wade, sister-in-law Anne Wade, sister-in-law Marybeth Russo (Robert), his nieces and nephews Joshua, Jonathan, Sarah, Seth, Rachel and Rebekah; as well as many cousins, lifelong friends and his adopted family, The Litke’s. He is predeceased by his brother John D. Wade.

Arrangements – A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, May 30, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Francis Church, Naugatuck. Burial will follow in St. James Cemetery, and there are no calling hours. The Buckmiller Ford Mengacci Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Doug’s name can be made to GBS/CIDP Foundation. Checks can be mailed to NORD, Inc. – Donations, Dept. 5930, P.O. Box 4110, Woburn, MA 01888 or by clicking here HERE to donate online.