Kimball Thor Wilder

Kimball Thor Wilder left this life in the same manner that he lived his life - peacefully. He was born in Wood County, Texas on August 15, 1914 to Zoe and Dock Wilder. His wife Donna L. Wilder preceded him in death on March 29, 2006. He is survived by siblings Juanise Head, Joyce Horton, Gerald Wilder, son Weldon Kim Wilder, daughter Martha and husband Bill Vansyckle, step children Kenneth Hammond, Ruby Alexander, Johnny and wife Doris Hammond, numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Kim Wilder lived and worked the land of East Texas until joining the Army in 1940. He served in the Calvary during the 1941 Louisiana Maneuvers and Infantryman during the Rhineland Campaign of World War II. He received awards and commendations, including two Bronze Stars, American Theater Campaign Medal, Victory Ribbon, EAME Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Service Medal, Service Stripe, and Overseas Service Bar. He raised his children and owned his barber business in Dallas. He returned to East Texas in the 70's, barbering in Mineola and Hawkins. It was then that he met Donna. Kim and Donna lived out their 31 years of contentment in the Big Sandy community. They were members of the First Baptist Church, where Kim served as Sunday Scholl Superintendent for many years. He was an avid fisherman and skilled horseman. He earned his reputation as a fine man with utmost integrity. His family and friends felt his unwavering unconditional love. His life serves as an example to all who had the pleasure to know him.