Thad Robert WakefieldNov. 7, 1966 - March 5, 2010Thad Robert Wakefeild, 43, of Jefferson died of an apparent heart attack while playing basketball.He was born in Dallas, the beloved son of Bob and Sonja (Flesland) Wakefield.  He grew up in the Dever-Conner area and attended Dever-Conner Elementary, Memorial Middle School, and graduated from West Albany High in 1985.Starting in the first grade, Thad participated in baseball, soccer and basketball, as well as city and church league softball.  Thad loved basketball and was an avid bowler participating in many leagues and tournaments but never achieving the elusive 300.  He enjoyed wood working and made loving gifts for his nephews and the challenge of weekend family pinochle tournaments.Thad was general manager for Carcraft Auto Appearance Center.  He worked 27 years with Gale and Armand Borde starting in the car wash at age 16.  He loved doing staff barbecues and playing Santa at their Christmas parties.  The staff loved him for all he did.Thad attended and was baptized in 1968 and confirmed in 1981 at Immanuel Lutheran Church.  He was a member at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Albany.  He was loved and will be missed by many.  We ask those that knew him to hold a fond memory and he will be with us forever.Thad is survived by parents, Robert and Sonja Wakefield of Albany; his special love, Darla Wicke of Jefferson; sister Mandi Wakefield of Albany; brother and sister-in-law Brett and Carie Wakefield; nephews Mason and Braden Wakefield of Albany; and many other aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his four grandparents.A graveside service will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at Willamette Memorial Park with Pastor Bruce Ley officiating. Memorial contributions can be made to the Albany Boys and Girls Club and the Wakefield family to help defray expenses, and can be sent in care of the funeral home. AAsum-Dufour Funeral Home is handling arrangements. ( www.aasum-dufour.com )