Thomas J. Wild

Thomas J. Wild, age 80 of Beavercreek, passed away Thursday September 3, 2026 at the Kettering Medical Center. He was born July 12, 1946 in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of the late Carl and Velma (Hermes) Wild.

Tom served his country in the United States Army during Vietnam as a member of the 101st Airborne, 506th Infantry, C Company. Following his military service he relocated to the area to obtain a master’s degree at UD and furthered his studies with the University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI). Following his time at UDRI he transitioned into a career with the U.S. Government in civil service at Wright-Patterson’s Air Force Research Lab, retiring in 2018.

Golf was a big part of his life, and he was an avid golfer who was always working to improve his game. While he enjoyed the challenge of the sport, in more recent years, some of his most valued time on the course was spent playing alongside his son.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a son, Matthew in 2005. Survivors include a son, Eric of Beavercreek; a brother, Jamie (Judy) Wild of Seattle; cousin, Bob Wild of Iowa; former spouse and mother of his children, Audrey Wild of Greenville; as well as other extended family.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday September 10, 2026 at 12:00 noon at the Belton-Stroup Funeral Home, 422 E. Dayton-Yellow Springs Rd., Fairborn, Deacon Bob Gutendorf officiating. The family will receive friends from 11:00 A.M. until the time of service. Burial with military honors will follow at the Byron Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation.