Wade Paul “Tinker” York, age 66, passed away on July 23, 2025, in Provo, Utah, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was born on June 2, 1959, in Payson, Utah, to Paul and Jeanette (McDonald) York on the day before his sister Shanna’s third birthday.
Wade lived life with resilience and a passion for hands-on craftsmanship. A graduate of Payson High School and Utah Trade Technical College, he built a diverse career as an auto body technician, HVAC technician, and fabrication technician. His skilled hands and inventive mind earned him the respect of colleagues across multiple trades.
An outdoor enthusiast at heart, Wade found joy in riding ATVs and camping through the West’s rugged terrain with friends. He always had a deep love for cars—he loved attending shows and occasionally showing vehicles he restored himself. He also loved many types of music, cooking for people he cared about, and watching old westerns on TV.
Family remained at the center of Wade’s world. He is survived by his son Brenton (Rebecca) York and grandsons Arthur and Morgan. He shared a close bond with his sister Shanna (Gary) Banner; nephew Rob (Dana) Losser and their family; niece Brittanie Ewell & Sam Stanford and their family; and grand-niece Chelsey Losser. Also by his cousins, who were like siblings to him, Tracy, Preston, Jason and their families. Wade also maintained strong ties with his former in-laws Dan and Peggy Stoker; Cindee (Mark) Nielsen and their family; and especially his brother-in-law Kyle Stoker & family. Kyle lived with him during the past year and a half and they had a chance to renew their friendship after Kyle’s 30 years in New Jersey.
He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter Danika York; parents Paul and Jeanette York; grandmother Martha Ann McDonald; nephew Rusty Losser; Rusty’s wife Sheri Losser; and his ‘brother’ Blake Thompson.
Wade’s adventurous spirit, craftsmanship, and enduring connections leave behind a legacy treasured by those who knew him best. His memory will continue to inspire laughter, stories, and heartfelt remembrance among family and friends.
There will be a Celebration of Wade’s Life held on Saturday August 2nd from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Rocky Mountain ATV/MC pavillion (1551 American Way, Payson UT) on the south side of the parking lot. Please come in your normal Saturday dress – jeans are perfect but bonus points for shorts! We would love for everyone who knew and loved him to come and share a story or just reminisce.
In lieu of flowers, if you are so inclined, the family requests a donation to fund research to find a cure for this insidious disease. The American Cancer Society is one option, Huntsman Cancer Institute another.