Allen Michael Wade, known affectionately to his friends as Big Al, passed away on May 15, 2026, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Mishawaka, Indiana, at the age of 72.
He was born on June 4, 1953, in Plymouth, Indiana, to the late Glenn Wade and Elizabeth (Komanich) Wade. Allen grew up in Plymouth and graduated from Plymouth High School with the class of 1972. From an early age, he showed the determination, energy, and entrepreneurial spirit that would remain with him throughout his life.
On September 2, 1973, at the First United Methodist Church in Plymouth, Allen married the love of his life, Rebecca (Kucera) Wade, who survives him and shared in the many chapters of his life. He is also survived by his son, Michael Wade; his loving grandchildren, Gloria Sullivan, Ben (Payton) Sullivan, and Victoria (Michael) Holland; his great-grandson, Xander; his sister, Jeanne (Dan) Beam; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter, Audra Sullivan, and his brother, Philip Wade.
As a young boy of just 9 years old, Allen was already finding ways to work and earn money by mowing lawns throughout his neighborhood. By the age of 12, he was mowing grass for the Capital Plymouth Motor Speedway, and at 15 he was promoted to Assistant Manager of the racetrack, a role he held for many years. His dedication to the speedway and his lifelong connection to racing were recognized in 1991 when he was inducted into the Capital Plymouth Motor Speedway Hall of Fame.
Allen spent over a combined 20 years working for Stockburger Trucking and also spent 9 years working for Bomarko. Even while maintaining his work responsibilities, he and his wife, Rebecca, built and operated several businesses together over the years, including a second-hand furniture store on Water Street, a car detail shop on Jefferson Street for five years, and Bahama Mamas Tanning for five years. He took great pride in hard work and in creating opportunities through his own efforts.
Allen also enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, especially estate auctions and antiquing, where he often found unique items for his businesses. He loved playing Texas hold ’em with his friends and was a longtime member of the Moose Lodge. Those who knew him will remember his friendly nature, his strong work ethic, and the way he could always find something worthwhile in a good conversation or a good deal. Above all else, he cherished his family and the time he spent with them.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 30th, 2026, from 1-3 p.m. at the Moose Lodge #741, 1225 W. Jefferson St., Plymouth, IN 46563.
Palmer Funeral Home – Plymouth Chapel is honored to be assisting the family with final arrangements.
