WWII veteran, local jeweler, alderman
STONEHAM — Philip L. Wadland Sr., 93, of Stoneham, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, November 9.
Philip was born in Melrose on August 22, 1921, one of three children of the late Henry J. S. Wadland and Elsie D. (Verry) Wadland. Raised in Melrose, Philip graduated with the Class of 1939 from Melrose High School. He served his country in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II and attended Boston University after receiving an honorable discharge.
For over 40 years, Phil owned and operated Wadland Jewelers on Main Street in Melrose. A second generation jeweler and watchmaker, Philip learned the business from his late father Henry who founded Wadland Jewelers in 1917.
Phil was an active member of the community, serving as an alderman and alderman-at-large for the City of Melrose. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, and enjoyed golfing at Mt. Hood Golf Course for many years. After retiring, Phil grew to love the game of golf and enjoyed a round at Mt. Hood nearly every day. His other interests included painting and travelling with his wife Helen.
Philip was the beloved husband of Helen (Flanagan) Wilder Wadland and the late Jean (Bradford) Wadland. He was the loving father of Philip L. Wadland, Jr. and his wife Carol of Manchester, NH. He was the caring stepfather of Richard Wilder of Wakefield, Paul Wilder of Wakefield, Kenneth Wilder of Strafford, NH, and Diane Richardson of W. Peabody. He was the dear brother of Natalie Vaughan and her late husband Robert of NC, and the late Robert L. Wadland and his wife Beatrice of Melrose. He is also survived by two granddaughters and three great-grandchildren.
Funeral services are private. Gifts in Philip’s memory may be made Hallmark Health VNA and Hospice, 178 Savin St., Ste. 300, Malden MA 02148.
For online tribute or condolences visit www.RobinsonFuneralHome.com
