Wade R. Taylor

Wade R. Taylor, known to friends as W8rT8r, passed away on September 20, 2025 at the age of 54.

Wade was always quick with a smile, a joke, or witty words to brighten your day. He made everyone around him feel happy and seen, whether you were family, a lifelong buddy, or a stranger at the store. His warmth, humor, and easy-going nature made life a little lighter for anyone lucky enough to know him.

Wade graduated from Bowsher High School in 1989 before studying at Columbus College of Art and Design, where he earned a degree in illustration that he valued throughout his life.

At only 14 years old, he joined the family business, working side by side with his grandfather, father, and brother to create innovative and artistic home designs. He carried on this work with dedication and pride until the very end, bringing art and beauty into people lives.

Wade and Kalyn Taylor married in 1998, and built a life rooted in love and creativity in Perrysburg, Ohio, where they raised their children, Hayze and Linzy.

Art was woven into everything Wade did—from the smallest daily tasks to his life’s work and endless ideas. His favorite medium was cut paper, through which he brought to life many whimsical creatures and scenes. He especially loved using his gifts to show appreciation to others, creating many personalized works for family and friends.

When he wasn’t creating, he enjoyed playing games of all kinds including golf, trivia, cornhole, dartball, pool, and poker. Wade was also a proud member of Elks Lodge #1850. He was immensely grateful for his many friendships and deeply cherished the profound impact they had on his life.

Wade is survived by his wife Kalyn; children Hayze and Linzy; mother Donna, siblings, Chad and Joy; niece Cagney and his beloved dog Miss. Dewey. He also leaves behind a large extended family of in-laws, nieces, and nephews, whom he loved very much.

He is preceded in death by his father Randy.

Friends and family will be received Monday, September 29, 2025 from 3-7 p.m. at Witzler-Shank-Walker Funeral Home, 222 E. South Boundary Street, Perrysburg, where a celebration of Wade’s life will be held at 7 P.M.

In the end Wade’s greatest masterpiece was the connections he made with people, proving that a life well-lived is measured in kindness, not years.