North Andover – David James Wade, 81, of Wolfeboro, NH, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2025, after a courageous battle with dementia. He was the beloved husband of Clara (Chambers) Wade, with whom he shared many cherished years. David was the son of the late N. Kenmure and Ruth Wade.

Born in Lynn, MA, and raised in Lynnfield, David graduated from Maine Maritime Academy in Castine, Maine, in 1967, after which he began his seafaring career as a Third Mate. Within a few years, David earned his Master’s license and went on to embark on a distinguished 20-year career with Lykes Brothers Steamship Company in New Orleans, Louisiana. He piloted ships around the world, journeying to the Far East, Europe, and beyond.

Following his retirement from the U.S. Merchant Marine, David continued to embrace new opportunities. He co-founded and ran a small distribution company, POSI, and then was CEO and President of Pharm-Eco Laboratories for nine years. Throughout this time, he remained an active and dedicated member of South Church in Andover, Massachusetts, where he served with great pride as a Trustee and on the Steeple Restoration Committee.

Lake Winnipesaukee was a lifelong source of joy for David. He spent summers there during his youth and early years of marriage. After many years in Andover and North Andover, MA, he and Clara ultimately chose Wolfeboro as their retirement home, fondly called the Lake House. David’s passion for the lake became a source of fond memories, family fun and togetherness.

In addition to his devoted wife Clara, David is survived by his sons, Glenn Wade and his wife, Donna of North Reading, MA, and David Wade Jr. of Winter Garden, Florida. He also leaves behind his sister, Roberta Wade of Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia, and his sister, Deborah Wade and her husband, Robert Breen of Bar Harbor, Maine. He is lovingly remembered by his grandsons Evan Wade and his fiancée Holly Hoffmann, Cameron Wade, and many dear cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Of all the cargo he carried across the world, the most precious was the love he held for his family and the memories he made with those he cherished.

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