Remembering Richard L. Wade (1948-2017) by GFS

Dick Wade, 2009.

GermantownFriends — 2017-11-14 17:08:44 UTC

Dick Wade and Rita Goldman supporting our athletes.

GermantownFriends — 2017-11-14 17:10:36 UTC

Herb Hamilton and Dick Wade

GermantownFriends — 2017-11-14 17:16:06 UTC

Dick Wade teaching 7th grade Quakerism.

GermantownFriends — 2017-11-14 17:16:17 UTC

Dick Wade

GermantownFriends — 2017-11-14 17:16:19 UTC

At the GFS Track dedication in 2003.

GermantownFriends — 2017-11-14 17:21:31 UTC

Jimmy Rollins and Dick Wade

GermantownFriends — 2017-11-14 17:40:06 UTC

GermantownFriends — 2017-11-14 18:18:29 UTC

2017-11-15 02:20:25 UTC

2017-11-15 02:22:59 UTC

Dick's relationship with the students began on the first day of his 20 yr. journey. He was in the front hall at 7:45 and during recess, learning every name of every middle and upper school student. That same love and direct, personal concern continued right to the end.

2017-11-15 16:40:14 UTC

2017-11-15 16:46:02 UTC

Dick Wade and Daniela Voith at the dedication of the Campus Commons.

A working committee for the campus comprehensive plan in 1992, Dick looking thoughtful with Florence Mini, and others and Cameron Mactavish during one of many meetings. Daniela Voith took the photo.

2017-11-15 16:46:06 UTC

Dick Wade was quite simply a class act. Caring, committed, genuine, talented, and kind. He managed to be deeply serious about his work and yet extremely easy going and approachable. He connected with students naturally. I remember his first address to the students when he joined Germantown Friends School, he remarked that the only advice the faculty gave him was to make sure it was funny - and it was. Very. I knew all the students would like him, and they did. An absolutely terrific Head of School, and person.

2017-11-15 16:55:47 UTC

Dick with Dana at an alumni event.

2017-11-15 17:02:14 UTC

just the best. so willing to engage with students and alums, and hear their thoughts, concerns, ideas. couldn't have asked for a better head of school.

2017-11-15 17:02:58 UTC

2017-11-15 17:09:17 UTC

Love from 2010

2017-11-15 17:19:54 UTC

What a steadfast and stabilizing force to experience at the helm for my 13 years at GFS. I feel incredibly blessed to have experienced him as our head of school.

Tom, Brandon, Howard and Dick

2017-11-15 17:22:23 UTC

A trip to Durham, NC to watch a Duke Basketball game

March 20, 2016

2017-11-15 17:29:06 UTC

Birthday buddies

Alumni Reception 2014

2017-11-15 17:39:16 UTC

"If you want me again look again for me under your bootsoles. You will hardly know who I am or what I mean, But I shall be good help to you nevertheless and filter and fiber your blood. Failing to fetch me at first keep encouraged. missing me one place search another, I stop some where waiting for you." Walt Whitman

2017-11-15 17:46:54 UTC

Respect and understanding

2017-11-15 17:49:05 UTC

I feel so lucky to have been a student during Dick's tenure. I still marvel at how he balanced engendering so much respect from us while also feeling like a friend, like he 'got' us. A great man who will be missed.

Traveling with Dick to the Czech Republic and Poland with the choir was one of the most important and meaningful experiences of my professional life. As Teri Gemberling-Johnson described one of her fondest memories, "Listening to the choir sing the Benediction, "The Lord Bless You and Keep You," as they surrounded their audience in the Meetinghouse. It was always the last song on every program. When we were on a choir trip to Poland, we spent the day at Auschwitz. On our tour of the concentration camp, we walked into a building recently built to commemorate Jewish victims, and saw the words, "The Lord bless you and keep you" written on a table. The choir spontaneously started to sing the Benediction." Dick created amazing opportunities for students, teachers, staff, and parents.

2017-11-15 17:49:30 UTC

Meg Goldner Rabinowitz

Some of my best memories were sitting in Dick's office and being schooled in the ways of the world while at GFS and beyond its safe walls. He modeled how to be a more thoughtful, compassionate person in the world. How to laugh and not take things so seriously. The high fives in the hallway, the support I felt when seeing him at games, musical performances. When I took money out of my meager first paycheck and sent a small donation to GFS to just give a little back to a place and teachers who gave me so much. Dick wrote me a thank you note that I still have to this day. Gratitude, respect and love for him always! -Lucille Songhai '02

2017-11-15 18:08:18 UTC

With sorrow as deep as our gratitude, we are immensely blessed to have journeyed with and served with Dick. Dick's humble and humane blending of tenderness and clarity, of hospitable life-among-us and willingness to lead us forward decisively--for the sake of meaningful change-- was always encouraging, always a breath of fresh air. Also, does it seem to others that Dick may have been the most beautifully Quakerly Baptist ever?

billbixbyop — 2017-11-15 18:09:35 UTC

This is so heartbreaking. Dick Wade was such an incredibly special head of school -- he always made me feel seen and heard and accepted. I know I'm not the only student that he always greeted by name, asking specific questions about what I was up to. He was wonderful. I was so lucky to have spent 20 years taking for granted that an institution should be led by someone kind, compassionate, generous, and warm, knowing implicitly that the benefit of the community was always at the forefront of his mind.

2017-11-15 18:13:59 UTC

Dick Wade knew each student personally, and made sure that we knew how invested he was in us. Even his simple greetings when passing in the hallway made one feel recognized and appreciated. Sometimes this recognition came with a sense of responsibility: I better take myself seriously, because Dick Wade takes me seriously. I recall a lively discussion in his office with a group of students about U.S. policy in the Middle East, in which he treated us as intellectual peers. As someone who now teaches, I cannot think of a better model for the kind of educator I would like to be.

2017-11-15 18:42:08 UTC

Having served on a parents' committee that interviewed candidates for the head of school position, I remember meeting Dick Wade for the first time and knowing INSTANTLY that he was the right person to lead GFS. Over the ensuing years, up until our youngest child graduated in 2000, I never wavered from that feeling. I know my entire family benefited from his wisdom, common sense, and utter humanity. The world has lost someone very special.

2017-11-15 19:04:21 UTC

Herb and Dick

2017-11-15 19:13:41 UTC

On Dick's birthday in 2016

Mr. Wade

2017-11-15 19:20:21 UTC

I always deeply admired Mr. Wade. As a GFS lifer, and someone who grew up in the community because of my mother, when I was in lower school, adults intimidated me a little. But I remember right when he was hired, he came to my third grade class and introduced himself, and talked to our class for a little bit. I never forgot that moment. I also remember when I was in eighth grade, he came to one of our cross-country races, and I was completely shocked to see him at the finish line. After the race, I walked over to him and said "What are you doing here?" and he replied "Well, you are running, I had to come check you out!" I honestly can't imagine a more caring and devoted person than Mr. Wade. He would go out of his way to help you, and he made sure that your experience was as good as it could be. We met a few times after I had graduated from GFS, and he was a great person to talk to, get advice from, and listen to. I'll never forget those interactions, and I'll also never forget his smiling face at the finish line of my middle school cross-country race.

-Justin Goldman, '03

2017-11-15 19:33:33 UTC

I always appreciated Dick , most of all because he got the GFS American flag flying again at school. Joe Staples 4

Gratitude

2017-11-15 19:52:54 UTC

I didn't know Mr. Wade that well, personally, but he made an impression on me. His presence was like that. He created a sense of safety and supportive holding for the school that I know I felt. It was surely his destiny to be principal of GFS! He carried out his role with dignity and grace. Most of all, the impression of him that I was left with, then and now, is one of love, which always leaves it mark. I am grateful for that. May you journey with all of the love that is here to support you on your transition.
-Ari Robkin '04

We spent 20 wonderful years at Germantown Friends School. From 1993 until 2010, they were all under Dick Wade. When Jay graduated, Dick came over to Jimmy and me, shook our hands and said he knew we always had his back. We did. And he had ours. Love you, Dick. You and I, we shared an accent and a world view. You will be missed.

2017-11-15 20:46:10 UTC

Eleanore Karnes Pabarue
Mother of Katie '03 and Jay '10

Retirement Celebration 2013

2017-11-15 22:11:14 UTC

Dick with middle school students Zoey Davidson ,Jacob Geller, Eric Schwartz and Stuart Case.

2017-11-15 22:14:18 UTC

He will be missed.

Dick served on the ADVIS (Association of Delaware Valley Independent Schools) Board from 1998-2009, the last six of those eleven years as Board Chair-elect, Board Chair, and Past Chair. It was my immense privilege and honor to work with him in this capacity, and to call him a friend. He was a caring, moral and exemplary leader and person, from whom I learned much. As the head of a school that could do so, he set the bar high for the independent school community in our region, believing that we are stronger together, and that collectively we should always place that which best serves the interests of students and families first. Dick enjoyed deep respect, admiration and affection from his colleagues from throughout the region, and the country. He will be sorely missed.

2017-11-15 22:22:10 UTC

Barbara Kraus-Blackney
ADVIS

I had a meeting with Dick when he was a very "new" head of school to try to convince him that GFS should host Summerbridge. My daughter had just finished spending her summer teaching in the that program and I thought it was a perfect fit for GFS. Arriving at the meeting ready to wax eloquent about the program and how it benefited both the kids as well as the "kids" that were teaching them. But he was several steps ahead of me. He invited other interested parties to the meeting and basically it was a done deal. The meeting I thought would be just the first of many, turned out to be the kick-off of a partnership that GFS and Dick forged with Summerbridge (now called Breakthrough). After that experience, I knew he was a listener and a doer - and I loved him for that...and for attending basketball games - playing a role in the pre-graduation parent shows...and the list goes on. What a guy!

2017-11-15 22:49:05 UTC

Helen Rigby, mother of Benjamin, '90; Jessica, '93; Theo, '98

COMMUNITY

2017-11-15 23:37:04 UTC

For Dick Wade the word "community" was not a casually uttered platitude nor a marketing catch-phrase.... it's what he lived. More often than I can recall, I heard members of the staff, security, transportation, food service and maintenance comment, "he knows me" or" he knows us". "When I was sick / when my mother passed" and so on, "I would always get a card from him, usually a visit too." He tended to be more at home looking laterally than looking vertically. He knew us.

Our thoughts and Prayers are with his family

2017-11-15 23:48:53 UTC

T’khai and I are deeply saddened by the news of Dick Wades passing. He was a great man who touched some many lives, including ours. He always spoke so highly of T’khai and wanted nothing more than to see him strive and he did all that he could to help him. Rest peacefully Mr. Wade until we meet again.

Tiffanie and T’khai Dunschee

2017-11-16 00:43:59 UTC

I am unbelievably appreciative to have had Dick Wade as my head of school. He had an impactful presence on campus and engaged with students on such a personal level. I am thankful for the support he gave me throughout my time at GFS, and I know he will be missed.

Truly Missed

2017-11-16 01:17:40 UTC

Oh the memories! GFS graduation 1995... Dick Wade was as much a symbol of Germantown Friends School as the open door logo. His presence was always warm, caring and understanding. His 20 year leadership and dedication to making GFS a beautiful place for children to grow, learn, and become independent thinkers is a testament to who he was. He will be deeply missed. Rest in God’s hands Dick!

Nicole Fisher (class of 95)

2017-11-16 02:06:55 UTC

Dick Wade had an amazing ability to instantly put people at ease and connect with students in a way that was so natural and effortless. I cherish the time we had together and the bond that we shared. Most of all, I will miss his hearty laugh and most genuine heart.

Carol Lee Hannon '01

2017-11-16 02:13:52 UTC

In 1998, Dick Wade took a chance on hiring me, a novice teacher, to teach math in the lower and middle schools. Though circumstances led me away from Philadelphia just a year later, I have been teaching ever since, and remain influenced by the Quaker values I learned at GFS. I thank Dick for this transformative opportunity.

Debbie Steinig

2017-11-16 02:31:43 UTC

I came to GFS late, starting in 11th grade. It almost felt like Dick Wade exuded the GFS culture in all of his interactions; he embodied it. I don't think I've ever been in another institution where the mission and vision were projected so clearly from the leader... yet as a leader, he was approachable, warm, knew everybody, and cared about everybody. I'm so glad to have had the opportunity to be a part of the GFS community during his tenure.

David Spielberg '01

2017-11-16 02:58:07 UTC

I was fortunate to be a parent and a School Committee member for many of Dick's years at GFS. I was so impressed with his ability to understand people, whether students, parents, faculty, staff or School Committee. He knew everyone's name! He embraced and became well-versed in Quakerism, and brought it, along with his own personality, to bear on his interactions and decisions. He gave and gave of himself, to the school, to the Meeting, to Germantown, exuding joy all along the way. Thank you Dick!
Condolences, love and gratitude to the Wade family. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Becky Johnson '70
(parent of Molly '05 and Anna '06 Weisberg)

2017-11-16 03:19:36 UTC

I used to think Dick Wade was the president. He was a tall white man with a southern accent and he always wore a suit, and I was a child of the Clinton/Gore era. It added up. I don’t know whether I thought he was president of the whole country or just sort of our local president, but I was in awe of him. So it felt extra special to me that President Dick Wade knew who I was. He always greeted me by name and with a smile. I hardly dared look him in the eye, but I was grateful.After I got past my second-grade confusion, I still felt glad to be known and acknowledged by Dick Wade. I don’t know how he managed to get to know every student’s name, but he did, and his “Hi, Em” always made me feel welcomed and part of things. Special, even. He was warm and approachable and kind, and he made me feel like I belonged. And that’s how you make a community.
-Emily Savin '04

2017-11-16 04:20:45 UTC

jwquartana — 2017-11-16 07:30:40 UTC

I am heartbroken to learn of Dick Wade's passing. It is impossible for me to think of GFS without thinking of him. I was always and continue to be amazed by his ability to know every student's name and be able to engage with them as if no one else mattered. He was one of the kindest, warmest people I have ever had the privilege of knowing. He is the kind of person most of us strive to be. I will never forget him.

John Wood Quartana '09

2017-11-16 15:56:19 UTC

2017-11-16 15:57:00 UTC

2017-11-16 15:57:42 UTC

Dedication to Friends Education

2017-11-16 19:30:32 UTC

Friends Council on Education remembers Dick Wade with deep respect and fondness.

Dick served on the Board of Friends Council on Education and was head of Germantown Friends School for 20 years. Following his retirement from GFS, Dick continued to serve Friends Council on the Membership Committee. Shown in this 2014 photo, Dick served on the Membership Renewal Visit Team for Carolina Friends School along with Executive Director Drew Smith and former Executive Director Irene McHenry. We are grateful for Dick’s longtime dedication and service to Quaker education, and for his warmth, his wisdom, and his unfailing ability to bring the Quaker core, philosophy, and values alive for all those he interacted with. Dick was a “fellow traveler” who was deeply committed to his own faith and represented Quaker faith so well. He will be missed.

In November 2011, the GFS cross country teams raced in punishing hail, weather so miserable that many parents fled Belmont Plateau to the warmth of their cars, several of them muttering "I love my kids, but not that much." But there was Dick Wade, his glasses fogged, his umbrella pummeled, out there cheering the kids. That's the extraordinary leader he was. All heart, constant in foul weather. We were so fortunate to have him in our lives.

karenheller — 2017-11-17 16:38:04 UTC

Karen Heller (parent of Nick Dye '12 and Cece Dye '14)

Remembering Dick Wade

2017-11-17 17:34:33 UTC

I was fortunate to be part of Dick's administrative team from 1993 to 2000. Dick taught us all how to be graceful, kind and humble leaders. His good humor, level-headedness, integrity, gentleness, compassion and empathy were displayed each and every day. Dick worked diligently to ensure that the Quaker values upon which GFS was founded always were at the forefront of his decisions. He was much-loved and will be sadly missed.

My deepest sympathy to Cheryl, David, Kim and the rest of the Wade family members.

Frannie Smith (Jamal '93, Johari '97)

" You Worked A Walk"

2017-11-17 18:01:14 UTC

At my 40th reunion in 2006, I took part in the varsity- alumni baseball game. In my lone plate appearance, with a 3-2 count, the pitcher threw a curveball that had me bailing faster than a man in a sinking rowboat, but the umpire called it ball 4, so I gratefully tottered to first base. Fast forward to 2011 and our 45th reunion, I saw Dick. Though we did not know each other well, we exchanged pleasantries and he mentioned the walk I had drawn 5 years earlier. His ability to place me and remember my minimal impact on a relatively small part of a reunion weekend speaks to a remarkable gift he had; the ability to connect with everyone and to recognize the importance of all our connections to the GFS community. My condolences to the family.
Theo Coxe '66

Honoring Dick Wade

2017-11-18 18:07:01 UTC

My condolences to the Wade family. Dick Wade was a wonderful and inspiring person that has done an incredible work for the GFS Community. I will forever be grateful for the support he provided to me as a new and international student at GFS and after. I will always remember him as a positive force.

Dinka Majanovic '02

A friend and mentor

2017-11-20 00:22:11 UTC

Dick was so generous in taking me under his wing and being available for a conversation whenever I was making a mess - a frequent occurrence - as a new school head at Friends Academy. His patience, wisdom, and embodiment of what it means to be a good person made him an ideal mentor because he always focused on the quality of community and the relations within the community when giving counsel. He gave a beautiful gift to me and Friends Academy when he agreed to chair our Decennial Accreditation visit and Quaker review in the fall of 2014. Despite the physical challenges he faced, his spirit, sense of the possible, and exquisite leadership of the committee never wavered. I will miss so much about him, but most of all his quality of being present for all and each simultaneously.

Bill Morris

A Remarkable and Loving Head for All

2017-11-20 13:17:55 UTC

I graduated in 1970 but Dick Wade touched my family's lives in Atlanta. He stayed with us in the mid 1990's while he was evaluating a local Friends school and he immediately bonded with my two kids to their delight and remembered all of us ever after when we visited GFS.

I was also struck by a story he told on himself of protecting one of the Senior classes from the consequences of a prank and the wrath of the rest of the faculty by getting in extra early and cleaning up their mess of hay and animals in the front hall before anyone else arrived. He somehow supported both his love for the students and his respect for the rules.

A remarkable, fun and loving Head!
BJ Erb Crabtree 1970

A unique and caring leader

2017-11-28 18:24:16 UTC

I first met Dick Wade after I graduated from GFS and he wanted to convene a group of former Community Scholars to begin to look at how to improve the program. I quickly learned that this was not about checking off a task, but rather he deeply cared about this work and as we got to know each over time, I learned that he deeply cared about people, all people. He was able to see all sides of an issue. When I expressed my gratitude to GFS for the support they offered me through CSP, he quickly thanked the CSP Scholars for their contributions to the school community. His leadership, integrity, humility and sense of conscience will be greatly missed by the GFS community and all of those he helped.
My sincerest condolences to the family, Descanse en paz, Dick Wade.
Francis Vargas '90

A Mentor and Cheerleader.

2017-11-30 00:12:40 UTC

Today, I got offered the honor of sitting on a visiting team at a school to look at their accreditation and the very first person who I wanted to share that information with was Dick. He and Cheryl have been my supports and mentors throughout my life, and have been there to give guidance every step of the way. Every time I have doubted my ability or questioned whether or not I was ready to take on a new role, I would turn to Dick and talk through the decision with him. When I chose to take a new path, or explore a new opportunity, I always wanted to share that with him. He was a mentor, a cheerleader and always a voice of wisdom and I will miss our conversations and his sage advice greatly.
David and Cheryl, you are in my thoughts and prayers, and my deepest condolences go out to you.

Love,
M
Melissa Battis '97

2017-12-03 17:48:41 UTC

2018-11-14 15:36:49 UTC

📎 Photo A Mentor and Cheerleader. A Mentor and Cheerleader. Today, I got offered the honor of sitting on a visiting team at a school to look at their accreditation and the very first person who I wanted to share that information with was Dick. He and Cheryl have been my supports and mentors throughout my life, and have been there to give guidance every step of the way. Every time I have doubted my ability or questioned whether or not I was ready to take on a new role, I would turn to Dick and talk through the decision with him. When I chose to take a new path, or explore a new opportunity, I always wanted to share that with him. He was a mentor, a cheerleader and always a voice of wisdom and I will miss our conversations and his sage advice greatly. David and Cheryl, you are in my thoughts and prayers, and my deepest condolences go out to you. Love, M Melissa Battis '97 A unique and caring leader A unique and caring leader I first met Dick Wade after I graduated from GFS and he wanted to convene a group of former Community Scholars to begin to look at how to improve the program. I quickly learned that this was not about checking off a task, but rather he deeply cared about this work and as we got to know each over time, I learned that he deeply cared about people, all people. He was able to see all sides of an issue. When I expressed my gratitude to GFS for the support they offered me through CSP, he quickly thanked the CSP Scholars for their contributions to the school community. His leadership, integrity, humility and sense of conscience will be greatly missed by the GFS community and all of those he helped. My sincerest condolences to the family, Descanse en paz, Dick Wade. Francis Vargas '90 A friend and mentor A friend and mentor Dick was so generous in taking me under his wing and being available for a conversation whenever I was making a mess - a frequent occurrence - as a new school head at Friends Academy. His patience, wisdom, and embodiment of what it means to be a good person made him an ideal mentor because he always focused on the quality of community and the relations within the community when giving counsel. He gave a beautiful gift to me and Friends Academy when he agreed to chair our Decennial Accreditation visit and Quaker review in the fall of 2014. Despite the physical challenges he faced, his spirit, sense of the possible, and exquisite leadership of the committee never wavered. I will miss so much about him, but most of all his quality of being present for all and each simultaneously. Bill Morris A Remarkable and Loving Head for All A Remarkable and Loving Head for All I graduated in 1970 but Dick Wade touched my family's lives in Atlanta. He stayed with us in the mid 1990's while he was evaluating a local Friends school and he immediately bonded with my two kids to their delight and remembered all of us ever after when we visited GFS. I was also struck by a story he told on himself of protecting one of the Senior classes from the consequences of a prank and the wrath of the rest of the faculty by getting in extra early and cleaning up their mess of hay and animals in the front hall before anyone else arrived. He somehow supported both his love for the students and his respect for the rules. A remarkable, fun and loving Head! BJ Erb Crabtree 1970 Honoring Dick Wade Honoring Dick Wade My condolences to the Wade family. Dick Wade was a wonderful and inspiring person that has done an incredible work for the GFS Community. I will forever be grateful for the support he provided to me as a new and international student at GFS and after. I will always remember him as a positive force. Dinka Majanovic '02 " You Worked A Walk" " You Worked A Walk" At my 40th reunion in 2006, I took part in the varsity- alumni baseball game. In my lone plate appearance, with a 3-2 count, the pitcher threw a curveball that had me bailing faster than a man in a sinking rowboat, but the umpire called it ball 4, so I gratefully tottered to first base. Fast forward to 2011 and our 45th reunion, I saw Dick. Though we did not know each other well, we exchanged pleasantries and he mentioned the walk I had drawn 5 years earlier. His ability to place me and remember my minimal impact on a relatively small part of a reunion weekend speaks to a remarkable gift he had; the ability to connect with everyone and to recognize the importance of all our connections to the GFS community. My condolences to the family. Theo Coxe '66 Remembering Dick Wade Remembering Dick Wade I was fortunate to be part of Dick's administrative team from 1993 to 2000. Dick taught us all how to be graceful, kind and humble leaders. His good humor, level-headedness, integrity, gentleness, compassion and empathy were displayed each and every day. Dick worked diligently to ensure that the Quaker values upon which GFS was founded always were at the forefront of his decisions. He was much-loved and will be sadly missed. My deepest sympathy to Cheryl, David, Kim and the rest of the Wade family members. Frannie Smith (Jamal '93, Johari '97) Dedication to Friends Education Dedication to Friends Education Friends Council on Education remembers Dick Wade with deep respect and fondness. Dick served on the Board of Friends Council on Education and was head of Germantown Friends School for 20 years. Following his retirement from GFS, Dick continued to serve Friends Council on the Membership Committee. Shown in this 2014 photo, Dick served on the Membership Renewal Visit Team for Carolina Friends School along with Executive Director Drew Smith and former Executive Director Irene McHenry. We are grateful for Dick’s longtime dedication and service to Quaker education, and for his warmth, his wisdom, and his unfailing ability to bring the Quaker core, philosophy, and values alive for all those he interacted with. Dick was a “fellow traveler” who was deeply committed to his own faith and represented Quaker faith so well. He will be missed. 📎 Photo 📎 Photo 📎 Photo I am heartbroken to I am heartbroken to learn of Dick Wade's passing. It is impossible for me to think of GFS without thinking of him. I was always and continue to be amazed by his ability to know every student's name and be able to engage with them as if no one else mattered. He was one of the kindest, warmest people I have ever had the privilege of knowing. He is the kind of person most of us strive to be. I will never forget him. John Wood Quartana '09 I I I used to think Dick I used to think Dick Wade was the president. He was a tall white man with a southern accent and he always wore a suit, and I was a child of the Clinton/Gore era. It added up. I don’t know whether I thought he was president of the whole country or just sort of our local president, but I was in awe of him. So it felt extra special to me that President Dick Wade knew who I was. He always greeted me by name and with a smile. I hardly dared look him in the eye, but I was grateful.After I got past my second-grade confusion, I still felt glad to be known and acknowledged by Dick Wade. I don’t know how he managed to get to know every student’s name, but he did, and his “Hi, Em” always made me feel welcomed and part of things. Special, even. He was warm and approachable and kind, and he made me feel like I belonged. And that’s how you make a community. -Emily Savin '04 I was fortunate to b I was fortunate to be a parent and a School Committee member for many of Dick's years at GFS. I was so impressed with his ability to understand people, whether students, parents, faculty, staff or School Committee. He knew everyone's name! He embraced and became well-versed in Quakerism, and brought it, along with his own personality, to bear on his interactions and decisions. He gave and gave of himself, to the school, to the Meeting, to Germantown, exuding joy all along the way. Thank you Dick! Condolences, love and gratitude to the Wade family. Thank you for sharing him with us. Becky Johnson '70 (parent of Molly '05 and Anna '06 Weisberg) In 1998, Dick Wade t In 1998, Dick Wade took a chance on hiring me, a novice teacher, to teach math in the lower and middle schools. Though circumstances led me away from Philadelphia just a year later, I have been teaching ever since, and remain influenced by the Quaker values I learned at GFS. I thank Dick for this transformative opportunity. Debbie Steinig Dick Wade had an ama Dick Wade had an amazing ability to instantly put people at ease and connect with students in a way that was so natural and effortless. I cherish the time we had together and the bond that we shared. Most of all, I will miss his hearty laugh and most genuine heart. Carol Lee Hannon '01 Truly Missed Truly Missed Oh the memories! GFS graduation 1995... Dick Wade was as much a symbol of Germantown Friends School as the open door logo. His presence was always warm, caring and understanding. His 20 year leadership and dedication to making GFS a beautiful place for children to grow, learn, and become independent thinkers is a testament to who he was. He will be deeply missed. Rest in God’s hands Dick! Nicole Fisher (class of 95) I am unbelievably ap I am unbelievably appreciative to have had Dick Wade as my head of school. He had an impactful presence on campus and engaged with students on such a personal level. I am thankful for the support he gave me throughout my time at GFS, and I know he will be missed. In November 2011, the GFS cross country teams raced in punishing hail, weather so miserable that many parents fled Belmont Plateau to the warmth of their cars, several of them muttering "I love my kids, but not that much." But there was Dick Wade, his glasses fogged, his umbrella pummeled, out there cheering the kids. That's the extraordinary leader he was. All heart, constant in foul weather. We were so fortunate to have him in our lives. In November 2011, the GFS cross country teams raced in punishing hail, weather so miserable that many parents fled Belmont Plateau to the warmth of their cars, several of them muttering "I love my kids, but not that much." But there was Dick Wade, his glasses fogged, his umbrella pummeled, out there cheering the kids. That's the extraordinary leader he was. All heart, constant in foul weather. We were so fortunate to have him in our lives. Karen Heller (parent of Nick Dye '12 and Cece Dye '14) Our thoughts and Prayers are with his family Our thoughts and Prayers are with his family T’khai and I are deeply saddened by the news of Dick Wades passing. He was a great man who touched some many lives, including ours. He always spoke so highly of T’khai and wanted nothing more than to see him strive and he did all that he could to help him. Rest peacefully Mr. Wade until we meet again. Tiffanie and T’khai Dunschee COMMUNITY COMMUNITY For Dick Wade the word "community" was not a casually uttered platitude nor a marketing catch-phrase.... it's what he lived. More often than I can recall, I heard members of the staff, security, transportation, food service and maintenance comment, "he knows me" or" he knows us". "When I was sick / when my mother passed" and so on, "I would always get a card from him, usually a visit too." He tended to be more at home looking laterally than looking vertically. He knew us. Dick with middle school students Zoey Davidson ,Jacob Geller, Eric Schwartz and Stuart Case. Dick with middle school students Zoey Davidson ,Jacob Geller, Eric Schwartz and Stuart Case. He will be missed. Retirement Celebration 2013 Retirement Celebration 2013 We spent 20 wonderful years at Germantown Friends School. From 1993 until 2010, they were all under Dick Wade. When Jay graduated, Dick came over to Jimmy and me, shook our hands and said he knew we always had his back. We did. And he had ours. Love you, Dick. You and I, we shared an accent and a world view. You will be missed. We spent 20 wonderful years at Germantown Friends School. From 1993 until 2010, they were all under Dick Wade. When Jay graduated, Dick came over to Jimmy and me, shook our hands and said he knew we always had his back. We did. And he had ours. Love you, Dick. You and I, we shared an accent and a world view. You will be missed. Eleanore Karnes Pabarue Mother of Katie '03 and Jay '10 I always appreciated I always appreciated Dick , most of all because he got the GFS American flag flying again at school. Joe Staples 4 Mr. Wade Mr. Wade I always deeply admired Mr. Wade. As a GFS lifer, and someone who grew up in the community because of my mother, when I was in lower school, adults intimidated me a little. But I remember right when he was hired, he came to my third grade class and introduced himself, and talked to our class for a little bit. I never forgot that moment. I also remember when I was in eighth grade, he came to one of our cross-country races, and I was completely shocked to see him at the finish line. After the race, I walked over to him and said "What are you doing here?" and he replied "Well, you are running, I had to come check you out!" I honestly can't imagine a more caring and devoted person than Mr. Wade. He would go out of his way to help you, and he made sure that your experience was as good as it could be. We met a few times after I had graduated from GFS, and he was a great person to talk to, get advice from, and listen to. I'll never forget those interactions, and I'll also never forget his smiling face at the finish line of my middle school cross-country race. -Justin Goldman, '03 Herb and Dick Herb and Dick On Dick's birthday in 2016 Having served on a parents' committee that interviewed candidates for the head of school position, I remember meeting Dick Wade for the first time and knowing INSTANTLY that he was the right person to lead GFS. Over the ensuing years, up until our youngest child graduated in 2000, I never wavered from that feeling. I know my entire family benefited from his wisdom, common sense, and utter humanity. The world has lost someone very special. Having served on a parents' committee that interviewed candidates for the head of school position, I remember meeting Dick Wade for the first time and knowing INSTANTLY that he was the right person to lead GFS. Over the ensuing years, up until our youngest child graduated in 2000, I never wavered from that feeling. I know my entire family benefited from his wisdom, common sense, and utter humanity. The world has lost someone very special. I came to GFS late, I came to GFS late, starting in 11th grade. It almost felt like Dick Wade exuded the GFS culture in all of his interactions; he embodied it. I don't think I've ever been in another institution where the mission and vision were projected so clearly from the leader... yet as a leader, he was approachable, warm, knew everybody, and cared about everybody. I'm so glad to have had the opportunity to be a part of the GFS community during his tenure. David Spielberg '01 Dick Wade knew each student personally, and made sure that we knew how invested he was in us. Even his simple greetings when passing in the hallway made one feel recognized and appreciated. Sometimes this recognition came with a sense of responsibility: I better take myself seriously, because Dick Wade takes me seriously. I recall a lively discussion in his office with a group of students about U.S. policy in the Middle East, in which he treated us as intellectual peers. As someone who now teaches, I cannot think of a better model for the kind of educator I would like to be. Dick Wade knew each student personally, and made sure that we knew how invested he was in us. Even his simple greetings when passing in the hallway made one feel recognized and appreciated. Sometimes this recognition came with a sense of responsibility: I better take myself seriously, because Dick Wade takes me seriously. I recall a lively discussion in his office with a group of students about U.S. policy in the Middle East, in which he treated us as intellectual peers. As someone who now teaches, I cannot think of a better model for the kind of educator I would like to be. This is so heartbreaking. Dick Wade was such an incredibly special head of school -- he always made me feel seen and heard and accepted. I know I'm not the only student that he always greeted by name, asking specific questions about what I was up to. He was wonderful. I was so lucky to have spent 20 years taking for granted that an institution should be led by someone kind, compassionate, generous, and warm, knowing implicitly that the benefit of the community was always at the forefront of his mind. This is so heartbreaking. Dick Wade was such an incredibly special head of school -- he always made me feel seen and heard and accepted. I know I'm not the only student that he always greeted by name, asking specific questions about what I was up to. He was wonderful. I was so lucky to have spent 20 years taking for granted that an institution should be led by someone kind, compassionate, generous, and warm, knowing implicitly that the benefit of the community was always at the forefront of his mind. Some of my best memories were sitting in Dick's office and being schooled in the ways of the world while at GFS and beyond its safe walls. He modeled how to be a more thoughtful, compassionate person in the world. How to laugh and not take things so seriously. The high fives in the hallway, the support I felt when seeing him at games, musical performances. When I took money out of my meager first paycheck and sent a small donation to GFS to just give a little back to a place and teachers who gave me so much. Dick wrote me a thank you note that I still have to this day. Gratitude, respect and love for him always! -Lucille Songhai '02 Some of my best memories were sitting in Dick's office and being schooled in the ways of the world while at GFS and beyond its safe walls. He modeled how to be a more thoughtful, compassionate person in the world. How to laugh and not take things so seriously. The high fives in the hallway, the support I felt when seeing him at games, musical performances. When I took money out of my meager first paycheck and sent a small donation to GFS to just give a little back to a place and teachers who gave me so much. Dick wrote me a thank you note that I still have to this day. Gratitude, respect and love for him always! -Lucille Songhai '02 With sorrow as deep as our gratitude, we are immensely blessed to have journeyed with and served with Dick. Dick's humble and humane blending of tenderness and clarity, of hospitable life-among-us and willingness to lead us forward decisively--for the sake of meaningful change-- was always encouraging, always a breath of fresh air. Also, does it seem to others that Dick may have been the most beautifully Quakerly Baptist ever? With sorrow as deep as our gratitude, we are immensely blessed to have journeyed with and served with Dick. Dick's humble and humane blending of tenderness and clarity, of hospitable life-among-us and willingness to lead us forward decisively--for the sake of meaningful change-- was always encouraging, always a breath of fresh air. Also, does it seem to others that Dick may have been the most beautifully Quakerly Baptist ever? Dick served on the ADVIS (Association of Delaware Valley Independent Schools) Board from 1998-2009, the last six of those eleven years as Board Chair-elect, Board Chair, and Past Chair. It was my immense privilege and honor to work with him in this capacity, and to call him a friend. He was a caring, moral and exemplary leader and person, from whom I learned much. As the head of a school that could do so, he set the bar high for the independent school community in our region, believing that we are stronger together, and that collectively we should always place that which best serves the interests of students and families first. Dick enjoyed deep respect, admiration and affection from his colleagues from throughout the region, and the country. He will be sorely missed. Dick served on the ADVIS (Association of Delaware Valley Independent Schools) Board from 1998-2009, the last six of those eleven years as Board Chair-elect, Board Chair, and Past Chair. It was my immense privilege and honor to work with him in this capacity, and to call him a friend. He was a caring, moral and exemplary leader and person, from whom I learned much. As the head of a school that could do so, he set the bar high for the independent school community in our region, believing that we are stronger together, and that collectively we should always place that which best serves the interests of students and families first. Dick enjoyed deep respect, admiration and affection from his colleagues from throughout the region, and the country. He will be sorely missed. Barbara Kraus-Blackney ADVIS I had a meeting with Dick when he was a very "new" head of school to try to convince him that GFS should host Summerbridge. My daughter had just finished spending her summer teaching in the that program and I thought it was a perfect fit for GFS. Arriving at the meeting ready to wax eloquent about the program and how it benefited both the kids as well as the "kids" that were teaching them. But he was several steps ahead of me. He invited other interested parties to the meeting and basically it was a done deal. The meeting I thought would be just the first of many, turned out to be the kick-off of a partnership that GFS and Dick forged with Summerbridge (now called Breakthrough). After that experience, I knew he was a listener and a doer - and I loved him for that...and for attending basketball games - playing a role in the pre-graduation parent shows...and the list goes on. What a guy! I had a meeting with Dick when he was a very "new" head of school to try to convince him that GFS should host Summerbridge. My daughter had just finished spending her summer teaching in the that program and I thought it was a perfect fit for GFS. Arriving at the meeting ready to wax eloquent about the program and how it benefited both the kids as well as the "kids" that were teaching them. But he was several steps ahead of me. He invited other interested parties to the meeting and basically it was a done deal. The meeting I thought would be just the first of many, turned out to be the kick-off of a partnership that GFS and Dick forged with Summerbridge (now called Breakthrough). After that experience, I knew he was a listener and a doer - and I loved him for that...and for attending basketball games - playing a role in the pre-graduation parent shows...and the list goes on. What a guy! Helen Rigby, mother of Benjamin, '90; Jessica, '93; Theo, '98 Traveling with Dick to the Czech Republic and Poland with the choir was one of the most important and meaningful experiences of my professional life. As Teri Gemberling-Johnson described one of her fondest memories, "Listening to the choir sing the Benediction, "The Lord Bless You and Keep You," as they surrounded their audience in the Meetinghouse. It was always the last song on every program. When we were on a choir trip to Poland, we spent the day at Auschwitz. On our tour of the concentration camp, we walked into a building recently built to commemorate Jewish victims, and saw the words, "The Lord bless you and keep you" written on a table. The choir spontaneously started to sing the Benediction." Dick created amazing opportunities for students, teachers, staff, and parents. Traveling with Dick to the Czech Republic and Poland with the choir was one of the most important and meaningful experiences of my professional life. As Teri Gemberling-Johnson described one of her fondest memories, "Listening to the choir sing the Benediction, "The Lord Bless You and Keep You," as they surrounded their audience in the Meetinghouse. It was always the last song on every program. When we were on a choir trip to Poland, we spent the day at Auschwitz. On our tour of the concentration camp, we walked into a building recently built to commemorate Jewish victims, and saw the words, "The Lord bless you and keep you" written on a table. The choir spontaneously started to sing the Benediction." Dick created amazing opportunities for students, teachers, staff, and parents. Meg Goldner Rabinowitz Gratitude Gratitude I didn't know Mr. Wade that well, personally, but he made an impression on me. His presence was like that. He created a sense of safety and supportive holding for the school that I know I felt. It was surely his destiny to be principal of GFS! He carried out his role with dignity and grace. Most of all, the impression of him that I was left with, then and now, is one of love, which always leaves it mark. I am grateful for that. May you journey with all of the love that is here to support you on your transition. -Ari Robkin '04 Respect and understanding Respect and understanding I feel so lucky to have been a student during Dick's tenure. I still marvel at how he balanced engendering so much respect from us while also feeling like a friend, like he 'got' us. A great man who will be missed. "If you want me again look again for me under your bootsoles. You will hardly know who I am or what I mean, But I shall be good help to you nevertheless and filter and fiber your blood. Failing to fetch me at first keep encouraged. missing me one place search another, I stop some where waiting for you." Walt Whitman "If you want me again look again for me under your bootsoles. You will hardly know who I am or what I mean, But I shall be good help to you nevertheless and filter and fiber your blood. Failing to fetch me at first keep encouraged. missing me one place search another, I stop some where waiting for you." Walt Whitman Alumni Reception 2014 Alumni Reception 2014 March 20, 2016 March 20, 2016 Birthday buddies Tom, Brandon, Howard and Dick Tom, Brandon, Howard and Dick A trip to Durham, NC to watch a Duke Basketball game Love from 2010 Love from 2010 What a steadfast and stabilizing force to experience at the helm for my 13 years at GFS. I feel incredibly blessed to have experienced him as our head of school. Empty just the best. so willing to engage with students and alums, and hear their thoughts, concerns, ideas. couldn't have asked for a better head of school. just the best. so willing to engage with students and alums, and hear their thoughts, concerns, ideas. couldn't have asked for a better head of school. Dick with Dana at an alumni event. Dick with Dana at an alumni event. Dick Wade was quite simply a class act. Caring, committed, genuine, talented, and kind. He managed to be deeply serious about his work and yet extremely easy going and approachable. He connected with students naturally. I remember his first address to the students when he joined Germantown Friends School, he remarked that the only advice the faculty gave him was to make sure it was funny - and it was. Very. I knew all the students would like him, and they did. An absolutely terrific Head of School, and person. Dick Wade was quite simply a class act. Caring, committed, genuine, talented, and kind. He managed to be deeply serious about his work and yet extremely easy going and approachable. He connected with students naturally. I remember his first address to the students when he joined Germantown Friends School, he remarked that the only advice the faculty gave him was to make sure it was funny - and it was. Very. I knew all the students would like him, and they did. An absolutely terrific Head of School, and person. A working committee for the campus comprehensive plan in 1992, Dick looking thoughtful with Florence Mini, and others and Cameron Mactavish during one of many meetings. Daniela Voith took the photo. A working committee for the campus comprehensive plan in 1992, Dick looking thoughtful with Florence Mini, and others and Cameron Mactavish during one of many meetings. Daniela Voith took the photo. Dick Wade and Daniel Dick Wade and Daniela Voith at the dedication of the Campus Commons. Dick's relationship with the students began on the first day of his 20 yr. journey. He was in the front hall at 7:45 and during recess, learning every name of every middle and upper school student. That same love and direct, personal concern continued right to the end. Dick's relationship with the students began on the first day of his 20 yr. journey. He was in the front hall at 7:45 and during recess, learning every name of every middle and upper school student. That same love and direct, personal concern continued right to the end. Empty Empty 📎 Video Dick Wade Dick Wade Dick Wade teaching 7th grade Quakerism. Dick Wade teaching 7th grade Quakerism. Dick Wade and Rita Goldman supporting our athletes. Dick Wade and Rita Goldman supporting our athletes. At the GFS Track dedication in 2003. At the GFS Track dedication in 2003. Dick Wade, 2009. Dick Wade, 2009. Herb Hamilton and Dick Wade Herb Hamilton and Dick Wade Jimmy Rollins and Dick Wade Jimmy Rollins and Dick Wade

Mr. Wade was a wonderful man!

2026-02-08 03:01:21 UTC

Mr. and Mrs. Wade taught at AWS in Tacoma, in 1973-1974, and I remember them as wonderful people. I was just listening to Dixie Chicken, and I was remembering Mr. Wade singing that to Mrs. Wade while we were on our 8th grade field trip. I came looking to see whatever happened to them, and came upon this page. I am very sad to hear about his passing. They were significant in setting an example of how happy couples court and behave. I didn't have many examples coming from a single parent household and going to an all girls school. Mrs. Wade, if you happen to read this, I loved you guys! (the former Kathy Knapp)