Michael Stephen Wilder

Michael Stephen Wilder, 80, of West Hartford, passed away at home on Wednesday, May 18, 2022, with loved ones by his side, leaving behind a legacy of learning, family, the law, sports, and philanthropy. He was the son of the late Harry and Anne (Melin) Wilder of New Haven, CT. Michael was predeceased by his wife of 48 years, Marjorie (Levitin) Wilder. He is survived by his two daughters, Kathryn and her husband Michael Guarini of Yorktown Heights, NY, and Amanda and her wife Camille Wilder of Albuquerque, NM. During the past seven years, Michael and his companion Sandra Zieky of West Hartford, CT, enjoyed socializing and traveling together. He also leaves behind his sister Gail Wilder of Milford, CT, his nephew Harrison Squire and his wife Miranda Smith of Syosset, NY, and his five beloved grandchildren, Emma, Matthew, Tyler, Elan, and Ida.

Michael grew up in New Haven, CT and spent his adult life in West Hartford, CT. He graduated from Hopkins School, Yale College, and Harvard Law School, where he made lifelong friends. Michael had an esteemed career as an attorney at The Hartford for over 30 years, retiring in 2001 as General Counsel, after which he became an independent arbitrator. Michael served on the boards of the Hartford Whalers, the Producing Guild, Safelite Group, Congregation Beth Israel Library, and the West Hartford Public Library. He enjoyed being a part of an investment group for many years and was an avid reader of books and newspapers alike, possessing an unmatched intellectual curiosity. A devoted fan of the Baltimore Orioles and UConn women’s basketball, Michael followed and celebrated sports. He was also a generous supporter of causes he believed in, including education and the arts. Throughout his full life, Michael maintained a wide network of friends, colleagues, and extended family.

A graveside service will be held with Rabbi Michael Pincus officiating on Wednesday, May 25 at 10:30 a.m. at the Beth Israel Cemetery, 27 Jackson Street in Avon, CT, followed by a reception. The family would like to thank Care at Home by Jewish Family Services ( JFS), which provided exceptional support in his final weeks. In lieu of flowers, contributions are suggested in Michael’s memory to the West Hartford Library Foundation, Congregation Beth Israel, or the Michael and Marjorie Wilder Fund at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, 10 Columbus Blvd., Hartford, CT 06106. Funeral arrangements are provided by Hebrew Funeral Association, West Hartford. He will be greatly missed.