Chief Richard J. Wilder “Pops” (U.S. Navy retired), 93, of Wareham sailed off on his final journey home after a long and good life on Dec. 5 at Tobey Hospital in Wareham. He was the husband of the late Mary (Webber) Wilder.

Born in Chatham, New York, he was the son of the late Donald and Ida M. (Akin) Wilder. Mr. Wilder enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard at the age of 18 during World War II, then joined the U.S. Navy where he served for over 27 years. He retired from the Navy in 1972. After retiring he worked as an engineer at the Salem Hospital for 20 years. He moved to West Wareham in 2005 to live with his daughter and grandchildren.

Mr. Wilder was a member of the American Legion Post #220, the Disabled American Veterans, the Fleet Reserve Association Branch #31 and V.F.W. Post #5933, Ghent, New York. He was a member of the First Congregational Church in Wareham

Know to all as “Pops,” he loved sitting and telling stories of his travels around the world. You could ask him anything and if he didn’t know the answer he would get a book to get you the answer. Richard was a kind and caring person who never judged anyone and was loved by all that knew him, he will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all that knew him. He was also an avid Red Sox fan and loved fishing.

Survivors include his devoted daughter, Lisa R. Wilder of West Wareham; his son, Donald J. Wilder of New York and his beloved grandchildren, Jowaun Gamble and Brianna Gamble of West Wareham. Also surviving is his long-time companion, Hazel Taber of Wareham. He was predeceased by his brothers and sisters, the late Vera “Peewee” Degroot, John Wilder and Margaret Craft.

His funeral service will be held on Monday, Dec. 12 at the Chapman, Cole & Gleason Funeral Home, 2599 Cranberry Highway (Rt. 28), Wareham at 1 p.m. Relatives and friends may visit on Monday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. prior to the service. Burial with military honors will follow in the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne.

Donations in his memory may be made to Wounded Warriors Project, P.O. Box 758517
Topeka, Kansas 66675. For directions and online guestbook visit: www.ccgfuneralhome.com.