Gerald Wade Tinkel's Obituary
Gerald Wade Tinkel, beloved husband, devoted friend, and cherished family member, passed away on May 30, 2026, in The Woodlands, Texas. He was 66 years old.
Wade was born on July 13, 1959, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Jerry Lee and Billie Bernice (Crittenden) Tinkel. He grew up in Bixby, Oklahoma, where he attended Bixby High School, graduating in 1978. A naturally gifted and intellectually curious young man, Wade was an active member of the chess club - an early glimpse of the sharp and witty mind that would define him throughout his life.
He went on to earn his Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from the University of Tulsa, followed by a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Oklahoma. During his graduate studies, Wade worked at Hillcrest Medical Center, and later built a meaningful career at St. John Medical Center in Tulsa, where he served as a discharge planner for geriatric patients - work that reflected his deep compassion for others.
Wade's love story with his wife, Julie, began in 1990, when the two met through the Praxis singles group, sharing a few movies and discovering a connection that would last a lifetime. On May 14, 1994, they were married, and this past month they celebrated 32 beautiful years together. When Julie's career took her to Houston, Wade carried on a long-distance relationship with her for four years - proof, if any were needed, of his commitment and devotion. Eventually, his heart made the decision easy, and he followed her to Houston, where they built their life together.
Wade and Julie were avid travelers, filling their years together with adventure and joy. They visited Las Vegas many times, explored the magic of Disney World, and cruised to Alaska on at least ten unforgettable occasions. The warm waters of the Caribbean also called to them regularly, providing the couple with treasured memories and shared experiences that enriched their marriage.
Those who knew Wade knew they were in the presence of someone truly one-of-a-kind. He was, without question, one of the wittiest people you could ever hope to meet. His humor was quick and effortless, and he made Julie laugh every single day of their life together - a gift she will forever treasure. Computers and technology had been a central passion since early in his life, and in later years he channeled that enthusiasm into mobile games, including Monopoly, and anime-themed titles. Chess remained a lifelong love, as did the wider world of gaming.
Wade had a profound love for animals, particularly dogs. He had a dog companion from an early age, and in his later years was devoted to his dogs Foster and Freddy, as well as the family cat, Fenwick. Dogs, in return, adored him completely. So tender was his heart toward animals that he simply could not bear to watch the animal rescue commercials on television - he would have to change the channel, every time.
The words those who loved him reach for most are the ones that suited him best: smart, sarcastic in the most endearing way, and genuinely funny. To his nieces and nephews, he was the coolest "nerd uncle" imaginable - always ready with a clever remark and a knowing smile.
Wade is survived by his beloved wife, Julie Simmons, of The Woodlands, Texas; his sister, Karen Willis; and his niece and nephews, Michael Collins of Chesapeake, Virginia, Gene Collins of Miami, Oklahoma, and Megan Collins of Edmond, Oklahoma.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry Lee Tinkel and Billie Bernice Fannin; his brother-in-law, Sammy Willis; and his beloved nephew, Jason Willis.
Services
A funeral ceremony honoring Wade will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at Rivercrest Chapel. Interment will follow at Bixby Cemetery.
The family will receive visitors from 5:00-7:00 PM on Monday, June 8, 2026, also at Rivercrest Chapel.
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