Warren Wildes

Groton — Warren Freeman Wildes, 92, a retired home builder, went to his eternal custom-built home on Aug. 8, 2018, after a brave battle with Alzheimer’s disease. His family mourns his loss, while celebrating his full life.

Born on Nov. 19, 1925, in Willimantic, Warren was the youngest son of Willis “Parker” and Dorothy (Lamb) Wildes. He grew up in Noank, and at the age of 17 joined the U.S. Navy to serve on the USS Flying Fish, which was deployed in the Hell Cats invasion of the Sea of Japan in 1945.

After the war, Warren moved to Long Beach, Calif., where he fell in love with the woman he would marry, Emily David, a Connecticut native. The couple eventually returned to Connecticut, where Warren joined his father and brother in establishing W.P. Wildes & Sons Custom Building Company.

Throughout most of his life, Warren was an avid golfer. During his retirement years, he painted landscapes and rendered oceanside scenes on lath and slate. Opera, Broadway musicals and classical music were a passion, as were his volunteer activities for his local chapter of WWII Submarine Veterans, where he served a term as president.

Warren was predeceased by his brothers Robert, Russell and Kenneth “Bunk.” He is survived by his beloved and devoted wife of 70 years, Emily David Wildes of Groton; two beloved children, Doretta Wildes of Middletown, and Linda Wildes of Glastonbury; three adored grandchildren, Alex Maffucci of West Hartford, Emelie Winiski of Middletown and Max Maffucci of West Hartford; and his dear and only sister, Bette Thomson of Groton. He also leaves behind many caring nieces and nephews and their families. Special thanks to the nursing staff at Fairview for their loving care and support.

His family will always be grateful for his wit and wisdom, cheerful optimism, large and listening ears, love of beauty and music, patriotism and commitment to a Yankee work ethic of perseverance. He was a kindhearted man who brought the gift of his smile and loving spirit to all. His memory remains vibrant in each of us.

A memorial service will be held at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 16, at the Groton Congregational Church, 162 Monument St., Groton, followed by a reception at Par Four Restaurant, Groton. Donations in Warren’s name can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, CT Chapter, 279 New Britain Road, Suite 5, Kensington, CT 06037 or Groton Congregational Church.

Please visit www.byles.com to sign the guestbook.