Gabriel V. Wildman

Gabriel Vladimir Wildman, age 15, of Northville, passed away tragically on January 8, 2024.  He was born on November 6, 2008 in Livonia, Michigan; son of James and Katya (Golovin) Wildman. Gabe was a Freshman at Northville High School. He attended Thornton Creek Elementary and Hillside Middle School. Despite his mischievous class clown persona, he possessed a unique ability to charm his teachers, creating an atmosphere of lightheartedness.

Gabe had an incredible work ethic. He worked at Kroger in downtown Northville over the summer and recently began working at Jets Pizza in Northville.

Gabe was funny, trustworthy, and a kind young man. He enjoyed spending time with his friends whether it was playing basketball or going to get his favorite, Orange Chicken from New Bangkok restaurant in downtown Northville. Gabe dabbled in trying different sauces to enhance the flavor of food, but ranch was always a staple. He was often seen downtown riding his scooter or relaxing by a pond fishing with his friends. He liked to be by the water either on the beach, driving a boat, or tubing. Gabe was hooked on playing Fortnite on his Xbox and Clash Royale on his iPhone, sometime staying up all night which was his preferred hour.

Gabe was amazing with young children because he was able to capture their attention with his gregarious personality. Gabe's teasing brotherly love and ability to push buttons were a testament to the strong bonds he shared with his siblings, Gavin and Anya. His collection of Arizona Iced Tea wasn’t just for the taste, he loved the can designs and colors. Gavin struck the lotto by finding 18 flavors at a gas station…a lifetime goal of Gabe’s that perhaps he chose to gift his brother. Gabe recently became obsessed with his Jordans, but never worried about impressing others with materialistic possessions. His confidence and street smarts were qualities admired by many. Gabe approached life with determination, ready to move mountains to achieve his goals, leaving an unforgettable impact on all who crossed his path.

Gabe is survived by his parents James and Katya Wildman, his brother Gavin Wildman, his sister Anya Wildman, his paternal grandfather Sheldon (Pam) Wildman, his maternal grandfather Vladimir (Natasha) Golovin, his maternal grandmother Natasha Golovina, his uncle Robert Smith, and his aunts Susan (Gregg) Jones, Tina (Biff) Martin, and Marina (Paul) Jhaj. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother Vivian Smith.

Visitation will be held Sunday, January 14, 2024 from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. A celebration of Gabe’s life will be held Monday, January 15, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville. Father Gregory Joyce with St. Vladimir Orthodox Church in Dexter will officiate the service.

To honor Gabe’s giving heart, memorial contributions would be appreciated to Northville Civic Concern , PO Box 323, Northville, Michigan 48167.

Gabriel Vladimir Wildman will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his laughter, kindness, and the everlasting impact he had on the lives of those around him. May he rest in eternal peace.