- Date Of Birth: May 18, 1928
- Date Of Death: December 31, 2018
- State: Colorado
Don was born in Seattle to Ruth Smith and Raymond L. Wilde.
He graduated from the University of Washington with a BS Degree in geology and did graduate work there after serving in the Navy during the Korean conflict. He was an avid mountain climber and logged several first ascents in the rugged northern Cascades. He loved the Colorado Mountains and spent many happy hours near Leadville as a member of the Home Stake Trout Club. He enjoyed tennis and skiing and spent time on the ski patrol at Sun Valley. He was a member of the mountain rescue team at Mt. Rainier while serving as a park ranger.
Don’s professional life included being founder and president of Wilde Inc., a geologic exploration firm. He was a member of ASPRS (national director), AAPG, RMAG, Petroleum Pioneers, Geolly Boys, and The Denver Petroleum Club.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Jeanne; son Brian (Becky); daughter Andrea (dec.), grandchildren Tanner, Cole, Katie, and Nathan (dec.).
