Obituary of Patrick Wilda

Patrick Carl Wilda Patrick Carl Wilda, age 33, of Plainfield, passed away January 30, 2015. Born in Joliet, IL on November 25, 1981, moved to Minooka, IL. Graduated from Minooka High School. Attended DeVry University with a Bachelors Degree. Survived by beloved fiancée, Samantha Martin; parents, Patrick and Kathleen (Young) Wilda; brothers, Kyle J. (fiancée Alyssa Miller) Wilda and Nicholas (Kim) Lasser; niece, Kylie Rae Wilda aka "little nugget"; loving grandparents, Carol (Minky) and James Dettlaff, Ray Wilda, Donald and Barbara Young; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and loyal friends. Preceded in death by his infant brother, Bruce Allen Wilda; grandmother, Virginia M. Wilda; aunt, Luanne Groeschel; and best friend, Michael Aguilar. Patrick was a third generation midget racecar driver. He was a fierce competitor, and a friend on and off the track. He loved all sports and was a phenomenal basketball player. Patrick had a passion for life unrivaled by most. He lived his life for those he cherished: his fiancée, his family, and his friends. He woke up everyday striving to make it better than the last. He was a mentor, loving companion, and the voice of reason to everyone who needed him. He touched the hearts of everyone he met. We have lost one of the greatest way too soon and he will carry a piece of all our hearts while he walks in heaven. Funeral Services for Patrick C. Wilda will be Thursday, February 5, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. from the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet to St. Mary Catholic Church, Minooka for Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. Interment St. Mary Cemetery, Minooka. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Kylie Rae Wilda Benefit Fund at Harris Bank, a college fund for his adoring niece, lovingly known as his "little nugget." Donations can be accepted at any BMO Harris Bank location. Visitation Wednesday 2-9 p.m. with eulogies beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the funeral home. For information: 815-741-5500 or www.fredcdames.com