Joseph Michael Wade

Joseph Michael Wade was born November 12, 2000, to Fr. Matthew and Kelly Wade of Goshen, Indiana. The youngest of five siblings, Joseph paved his own way in the world, leading with his vibrant personality and big heart in all that he did.

Joseph attended Goshen Public Schools where he enjoyed music, creative writing, and the GHS Dive Team, later pouring his energy into developing a craft for HVAC; a trade he was passionate about because he could help people directly improve their homes and see the tangible results. An entrepreneur at heart, he was constantly scheming and dreaming of ways to support himself in life, with everything from rap artistry as a teen, to home improvement services- most recently he was developing an LLC that would provide “lifesaving solutions” to home environmental risks. No matter what the idea, he desired to leave everything better than he found it. He was a naturally meticulous and creative person and enjoyed spearheading home-improvement projects at his family’s residence, or on the church property where he attended.

In his young adult years, Joseph fought a great and lonely battle against mental illness; one that stole the brightness from his cadence on many days and provided unspeakable challenges in the way he navigated the world. Despite all, he was loved by his community and continued to look for the Light in a sea of darkness. Joseph had an intense zeal for helping others and was always seeking out acts of service. He loved thoughtful gift-giving, even though he personally adhered to a frugal lifestyle.

Two of his joys were his nephews, John and Theodore; he took immense pride in being an uncle for the past four years. Joseph’s greatest loves in life were no surprise to those who knew him: his family and his Orthodox Christian faith, a foundation he built his existence upon. His last days on earth were spent in the Holy Week services at St. Mary’s Orthodox Church in Goshen, anticipating the joy of the Resurrection on Great & Holy Pascha (Orthodox Easter).

“We are fools for Christ’s sake, but you are wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are distinguished, but we are dishonored!” (1 Cor. 4:10)

Joseph survives by his parents, siblings Anna (James) Michael, Lydia, Jesse, and Persis; and nephews, John and Theodore Michael; and brother-in-law, Matthew Michael.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 10 a.m., at St. Mary’s Orthodox Church, followed by a foot procession and burial at Rock Run Church of the Brethren. Both are located kitty-corner to one another on CR 38 & 33.