John “Jack” Wildt passed away at 91 years old, peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026.
Jack was born in Merced on April 24, 1934, to parents John and Mary Wildt.
Jack grew up on Colorado Road and in Bagby with his siblings, where his love of gold mining, hunting and fishing bloomed. He joined the U.S. Army in 1957 where he went abroad to Germany. While in the army he received marksman’s award and good conduct metals.
On Sep. 1, 1960, he married the love of his life, June Johnson. They were married for 65 years and built a wonderful family with their three boys.
Throughout his life he continued doing what he was passionate about, playing in the dirt, mining and as a heavy equipment operator. He was an amazing local historian with extensive knowledge of every mine in Mariposa County and the families that ran them.
He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and sharing this information that allowed the love of the mining tradition to continue.
His witty sense of humor and belly laugh will be missed by all he left behind.
He is survived by his wife June; his sons, Ralph Wildt (Sharla) and Vern Wildt; seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; his brother, Charlie Wildt; and his sister, Sylvia Emery.
He was preceded in death by his son, Harold, and brother, Sterling Wildt. Services will be announced later.
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