With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Christopher John Wilder, affectionately known to many as “Wilder” and to some as “Red.” He was born on March 26, 1977, and left this world far too soon on July 3, 2025, at the age of 48. A native of Vermont, Chris made his home in Grafton, where he built a life filled with love, loyalty, and quiet strength.

Chris was the cherished son of Diane and Donald Bartlett of Bellows Falls and John and Patricia Wilder of Saint Albans.

He was preceded in death by his beloved grandmother, Rita Belisle and her husband, Henry, as well as his maternal grandfather, Richard Rayner Sr., and his brother, Eric Hill, whom he deeply missed every day. He was also predeceased by his cousin, Monica Curtis Dunn, grandparents, William Wilder Sr. and Marion “Hannah” Wilder, and Aunt Carol Wilder.

Chris leaves behind the light of his life, his son, Aidan Wilder, and Aidan’s mother, Melissa Wilson. Nothing mattered more to Chris than being a father to Aidan. His love was absolute, fierce, loyal, and filled with pride for the son who meant everything to him.

Also dear to his heart were Reed Hill, Lorelei Hill, and Asher Hill, the children of his late brother, Eric. Chris cared for them deeply and held a special place in his heart for each of them, a reflection of the love he had for their father.

On his mother’s side, Chris is survived by cousins who were more like siblings and lifelong friends: Timothy Maxfield, Trevor Ramsey, and Tonya Hansen, along with their spouses and children, all of whom held a special place in his heart. He is also survived by his aunt, Marlene Curtis and her husband, Lee who remained a steady and loving presence throughout his life.

On his father’s side, he is survived by his siblings: Kelly Campbell and her husband, Harold, Kris Senesac and her partner, Joe, Rose Wilder, and Tiffany Wilder and her husband, Dustin, as well as his uncles, Timothy Wilder and his wife Tara, and William Wilder Jr.

He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, multiple cousins, and dear friends who will miss him deeply. Chris’s love extended to his loyal dogs, Oxford, Piper, and Ceasar and to the numerous other loved ones who shared in the chapters of his life.

Chris had a soul that connected deeply with animals, often finding peace and joy in their company. He loved nature and felt most at home in the quiet stillness of the woods. He loved with rare intensity, whether it was his people, his pets, or his passions, he gave his whole heart. He felt deeply and cared in ways that left lasting marks on those who knew him.

Calling hours will be held at Fenton and Hennessey Funeral Home, 55 Westminster Street, Bellows Falls, Vermont on Thursday, July 10 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A Memorial service will be held on Friday, July 11 at 11:00 AM also at Fenton and Hennessey Funeral Home. A reception will follow at the Westminster Fire Station.

Chris’s absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but the love he gave and the memories he created will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Fenton and Hennessey Funeral Home, 55 Westminster Street, Bellows Falls, VT.