"Fly High baby cousin. I will cherish every single memory of you. You will be deeply missed. Love, Jade"
In loving memory of
David Wages
October 3, 1981 - September 26, 2018
Services to honor and remember the life of U.S. Navy Senior Chief David Wages will be 2:00 p.m. Monday, October 1, 2018 in the RiverCrest Chapel, Bixby. Family will receive friends for visitation from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 30, 2018 at Bixby Funeral Service. David passed away on Wednesday in Bixby. He was 36.
Born October 3, 1981 in Tulsa, David was the son of Robert "Bob" Wages and Linda (Upmeyer) Wages. Raised in the Bixby community, David enjoyed playing baseball during his youth. Beginning at an early age, those around David knew that he had a great sense of humor and he has long been described as funny and hilarious. When he needed solace, David found himself outdoors where he could hunt, fish or camp.
In the year 2000, David became a graduate of Bixby High School. Following high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy where he proudly served his country with eight years of active duty. It was during this time that he served as a minesman and even once crossed the equator on a Naval ship. Throughout his military service, David would attain the rank of Senior Chief, in the Navy, as well as numerous other accomodations and he was also awarded "Sailor of the Year". Much of his time in the Navy, David was stationed in Japan and there his life would be changed forever when he became the proud father of daughter, Tia Sakura Wages.
Upon his transition from active duty to reservist, David became a graduate of St. Leo University in Florida where he received both his Bacherlor's and Master's degrees in Criminal Justice. He would also become a graduate of the Tulsa Police Academy and served on the Tulsa Police Department for several years.
Described as fun and a handyman, David was mechanically inclined and enjoyed working with his hands. More than anything, he loved his country and his family - especially his children, Tia and Liam.
David is survived by: his children: daughter, Tia Sakura Wages and son, Liam Carter Wages; his parents: Robert "Bob and Linda Wages; sister, D.J. Williams, who affectionately referred to David as her 'baby bother'. In addition, he is survived by a niece and nephews: Trinity, Ethan and Kieran; his maternal grandmother, Maxine Upmeyer along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by: his paternal grandparents: Thomas and Vivian Wages, maternal grandfather: Merlyn Upmeyer, and an uncle, Daniel Upmeyer.
Tributes
"David Was Sooo much to so many people. He was a true life super hero! On my Daughters 4th Birthday he put together her swing set all by himself! and got her a present! He helped me install my grandparents microwave above a Glass Stove top in a Wooden Cabinet! Way Harder than it sounds! He Wired my mothers house and barn He wired my grandparents garage! All of these things this MAN did for FREE! I don't want anyone to forget how NICE & Sweet & Honest & Hard Working this man was. Hey was Also Very Genuine and Innocent! Too much so for this world! My Family and I will always Love and hold you dear in our Hearts David! You were my best friend David, Happy Birthday. Chris Stout."
"You will be truly missed, I will never forget our times serving together. You truly are one of the greatest guys I will ever have the honour of knowing. RIP brother. Thomas Moore, "Peace to each manly soul that sleepeth; Rest to each faithful eye that weepeth." May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand. Thank you buddy for everything."
"You will be truly missed, I will never forget our times serving together. You truly are one of the greatest guys I will ever have the honour of knowing. Rip brother. Thomas Moore, "Peace to each manly soul that sleepeth; Rest to each faithful eye that weepeth." May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand. Thank you buddy for everything."
"David and I first met in navy boot camp where we were in the same division, we went to A school together and we both went to the USS Patriot and were assigned to the same room in the barracks, and even though I'm from Texas, I live in Muskogee, OK. I feel a great loss. My heart is broken for the loss to the world and to his family. Far winds and following seas brother."
"I know our friends and neighbors, the whole Wages family , better in swim suits than other clothes. We all shared some fun at the community pool several summers. David?s beautiful daughter, Tia, has my name and we giggled a lot about that. Tia and my granddaughter Delaney had a great time at the pool. I only met David a few times but it was apparent how proud of him the whole family was. Jeff and I send our sympathy to you all for such a great loss "
"I know our friends and neighbors, the whole Wages family , better in swim suits than other clothes. We all shared some fun at the community pool several summers. David?s beautiful daughter, Tia, has my name and we giggled a lot about that. Tia and my granddaughter Delaney had a great time at the pool. I only met David a few times but it was apparent how proud of him the whole family was. Jeff and I send our sympathy to you all for such a great loss "
"I am so sorry for your loss. It was a real shock when I got the notice. I remember when I first saw David in the nursery at church. He was so small and cute. What a wonderful man he grew up to be. Please know that you all are in my thoughts and prayers. I would love to visit with you when you feel up to it. My number is : 918-697-2549."
"I'm heartbroken at the loss of such a good man. David was always welcome in my homeand was part of our family. My deepest condolences to his family especially his children. Rest easy my friend. With love and respect. The Martin Family"
"He was a great person. My condolences to you and your family."
"David, You were a good neighbor and close friend to Haley and myself. The neighborhood will not be the same without you across the street. We have so many memories of times shared with you and Tia. Thank you for looking out for us... You are forever in our hearts... Love, Karen and Haley "
"David, you will be greatly missed. You were an amazing man, awesome father, and a forever friend. Fly high ... We'll miss you. xo Emma "
"Rest in Peace Brother! Your friend Chief Robert Little USN"
"I am so sorry for the loss of David. He was an awesome young man & was a wonderful friend to my daughter, Rebecca. My husband & I will keep you & your family & the children in our prayers. Kelly & April McMichael"
"David, you will always be loved and never forgotten. Love ya - Becky"