In loving memory of

Darren Wild
January 30, 1971 - April 25, 2022

Darren M. Wild, of Antigo, died Monday, April 25, 2022, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital following a brief battle with cancer. He was 51 years old. He was born on January 30, 1971, in Antigo, a son of Dawn (Marvin) Wild of Antigo and the late Floyd Wild.

Darren was a welding instructor at North Central Technical College (NTC) for 20 years. Then he was employed as a corporate welding trainer for Agra in Merrill until returning to NTC in 2021.

Darren had a deep love for nature. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. He had a backyard oasis bordering the Eau Claire River. He cherished time spent with many close friends.

Survivors include his mother, Dawn; a daughter, Morgan (Joe Lex) Wild of Antigo; son Tyler Wild of Merrill; a grandson, Gage Lex; a sister, Amy (Jeff) Ortscheid of Seymour; two brothers, Steve (Abbi) Wild of Alabama and Paul Wild of Antigo; nephews, Connor and Jack Ortscheid; his former wife, Tina (Wilson) Chroge and Tyler's mother, Karen Heldt.

He was preceded in death by his father.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 30, 2022, at 11 a.m. at Bradley Funeral Home with Pastor Dominic Petit officiating. Burial will take place in Queen of Peace Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, April 29 from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the funeral home.

Tributes

Clarence Berdan Jr wrote on May 2, 2022:

"I could not believe the news when I heard about Darren. A lot of fond memories come to mind with our families growing up together and I would not trade that for anything. Darren, you left way to soon and you will be missed. Rest in peace my friend. "

Larry Kind wrote on May 1, 2022:

"I was shocked to learn of Darren's illness only a short time ago. Darren was always so full of life, it is hard to imagine he's no longer with us on this earth, however he will always be with me/us in spirit. Darren had a positive impact on my life. He also made a difference for countless students over the years as well as his co-workers. I consider myself fortunate to have known and worked with Darren for many years. He was a great welding instructor, but perhaps the most valuable lesson he taught his students had more to do with attitude than welding skills. Darren conveyed an attitude of hard work, committment, common sense and a positive outlook to his students. In addition he had a great sense of humor and an infectious laugh. I know this is a hard time for family and his friends. However, we can all take comfort knowing that Darren made the world a better place for all of us.... as well as for countless students, most of whom we may never know. Thanks for the memories Darren. "

Karen wrote on Apr 30, 2022:

"My heart aches for the Wild family. Darren was a true inspiration to so many, co-workers and students. I was fortunate to have worked with Darren at NTC and at AGRA and witnessed his true passion and commitment. He went over and beyond to help his students to see them succeed. Thank you Darren, you will be sadly missed??"

Daniel Berdan wrote on Apr 29, 2022:

"So shocked and sad when I heard the news. Growing up our families were always together, swimming, fishing, hunting, snowmobiles, three wheeler, you name it we probably messed with it. So many memories and fun times, I can't believe you are gone so soon Darren. I kept thinking there would be time to re-connect during one of my trips home to visit my family and I'm so sorry that I didn't try reaching out. Gone way to soon, rest in peace Darren. - Daniel Berdan"

Tonya MT - NTC wrote on Apr 28, 2022:

"Darren was a fun, funny, passionate man with a delightful way of being in the moment. I'm so sad he's gone, and I wish all his friends and family healing memories and bright spots of laughter as you grieve."

Dennis and Mary Dettmering wrote on Apr 27, 2022:

"To Darren's Family, I was shocked to read the sad news today. I worked with Darren at NTC and Lincoln Hills. He always had the student's best interest at heart. Den always enjoyed talking and sharing various welding experiences. Darren is gone way too early; but we always hear that God calls the best. He now is enjoying his last chapter in life - eternal rest. Mary and Dennis Dettmering"

David wrote on Apr 26, 2022:

"I got to know Darren when he was the welding instructor/teacher while at Lincoln Hills School! I always respected him and he was always a pleasure to talk with! I am so very sorry for your loss and you know that he was good man! God Bless! Dave,Patti VanDerGeest"

Kat Jensen wrote on Apr 26, 2022:

"Sympathies to the family; Darren and then Wife Tina were our neighbor's long ago; May he RIP "

Curt H. wrote on Apr 26, 2022:

"Not enough can be said about how great of a man Darren was. I owe my current life and career to this man. Darren was the greatest teacher and student could hope to have. He was kind when mistakes were made, and a driving force to be better when mistakes weren't made. The world lost one of its best and my deepest condolences go out all the family and those who could call this great man a friend. If your reading this from the fishing boat in heaven, thank you sir for taking the time to work with a troubled kid and molding me into who I am today. You are truly missed and appreciated. "

Brad Gast wrote on Apr 26, 2022:

"There are no words that I can share that dampen the loss of this wonderful man. Darren was always a person who I loved to work with - he was creative, thought outside the box, and had such great ideas. He was a stand up man and person. I am better because of him. His impact will not be forgotten. My deepest condolences to you. May the wonderful memories of Darren continue onward. God bless."

Jeanne Peters wrote on Apr 26, 2022:

"Dawn, Paul, and family -- Thinking of you during this sad time and praying for God's peace and comfort. Jeanne and Jim Peters."