With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Wade Arlin Gaeddert, MD, who passed away on Thursday, February 15, 2024, at the age of 58. His final moments were spent in the serene embrace of Princeville, Hawaii, on the picturesque island of Kauai, where he and his beloved wife, Angie, were enjoying a peaceful vacation.
Born on March 27, 1965, in the town of Moundridge, KS, Wade was the son of Arlin Dean and Beverly Anne (Wiegand) Gaeddert. After graduating from Inman High School in 1983 and Bethany College (Lindsborg) in 1987, he pursued the noble path of healing, earning his doctorate degree from the University of Kansas Medical School. He would later further his medical expertise during his residency in Columbia, MO.
During his transformative years at Bethany College, fate intertwined his journey with that of Angela Karen Poss, his soulmate. Their union in marriage took place in 1990 in Angie’s hometown of Hugo, CO.
Dr. Gaeddert served the McPherson community for many years as an ear, nose, & throat specialist, working in the McPherson branch of the Hutchinson Clinic. His reputation as a caring and skilled health care provider was widely known, bringing patients from near and far to seek his medical expertise. Along with being a devoted doctor, he wholeheartedly loved his family. He was a wonderful son, husband, father, brother, and most recently, a grandfather who relished every moment spent with his grandchildren. Wade was humble and inclusive, genuinely caring for those around him.
Wade possessed an abiding affection for the great outdoors, whether it be snow or water skiing, traversing landscapes through hiking, or finding solace by the lakeside. Many cherished moments were often with the company of family and friends, singing karaoke and creating everlasting memories.
Wade leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion and is survived by his cherished wife of 34 years, Angie, and their three children: Nichelle (Nate) Chastain and their children, Otto and Hugo, of Kansas City, MO; Brooke (Ethan) Fowler and their daughter, Maren, of Jackson, MS; and William (Louie) Gaeddert of Lenexa, KS. Other family members include his siblings: Wylene (Doug) Lengel of McPherson, KS; Dawn (Gary) Belknap of Elkhorn, NE; and Keena (Michael) Leochner of Lee’s Summit, MO; his step-father, Loren Regier of Inman, KS; and a multitude of cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, colleagues, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Arlin Gaeddert; mother, Beverly Gaeddert-Regier; and an infant brother, Lyle Dean.
The family will receive friends on Friday, March 8, 2024, between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM, at the First United Methodist Church. A celebration of his life will take place on Saturday, March 9, at 10:00 AM, also at the First United Methodist Church, with a burial following at the North Inman Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be made to First United Methodist Church, McPherson Family YMCA, Life’s Bridges Hawaii, Inc, Pleasant View Home (Inman), or Bethany College (Lindsborg) in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.