Mitchell S Wilder

Mitchell Wilder, a beloved husband, veteran, and friend to many, passed away peacefully at home on October 25, 2026, after battling cancer like a warrior. Born on September 16, 1961, in Piketon, Ohio, Mitchell was the cherished son of Aldon N. Wilder and Marlene K. Wilder, both of whom predeceased him, along with his brothers Michael and Robert Wilder. Mitchell is survived by his devoted wife, Sheri, with whom he shared 42 wonderful years of marriage. Their love story began in August 1984 in Virginia Beach, and together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and an innumerable number of loyal friends who became extended family by heart. A proud veteran, Mitchell served in the United States Navy from January 1981 through August 1986. His exemplary service earned him a Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, a Sea Service Deployment Ribbon twice, and a Navy Expeditionary Medal. He was honorably discharged and carried with him the values and camaraderie of his military experience throughout his life. After his military service, his passion and love of vehicles sent him into the automotive field, where he became an ASE Certified Technician. He became a master at diagnosing mechanical issues, a skill he generously shared with family, friends, and neighbors—always willing to open his garage doors to anyone in need of help. Then Mitchell found his calling at Atlantic Foundations, Inc., where he began as a dump truck driver in 1997 and later excelled as a tractor trailer lowboy driver, skillfully moving heavy equipment between job sites. His precision and passion for his work were unparalleled, and he was revered for his ability to maneuver the lowboy into places others would never dare. Mitchell's love for the outdoors was profound. As an avid outdoorsman, he found joy in fishing, boating, hunting, smelting metal in his workshop, and tending to his yard. He was a member of the Cemetery Ridge Hunt Club in Sussex County for 20 years, cherishing the friendships and brotherhood it provided. In recent years, he discovered a new passion for gold prospecting through his memberships with Central Virginia Gold Prospectors and Appalachian Goldstock. Though he rarely struck gold, the thrill of the search and the camaraderie it brought him were treasures enough. Mitchell was a man of deep compassion, integrity, and warmth. His charming personality and kind heart endeared him to many, and he was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. His legacy of love, faithfulness, and honesty will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. In honoring Mitchell's life, the family extends their deepest gratitude to the dedicated staff at Virginia Oncology, the Brock Cancer Center, and Trinity Hospice. Their exceptional care and unwavering support provided comfort and solace during his journey. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Mitchell's memory to a cancer research organization of your choice, to continue the fight against the disease that took him from us too soon. As we remember Mitchell, let us celebrate a life lived with passion, love, and kindness.