Wade Downey – Operations Manager

Wade Downey brings more than 20 years’ experience of the funeral profession to his role of Operations Manager at Dil’s. The strength of his background enables him to oversee the daily running of the company with outstanding knowledge and skill.

He is highly qualified with a Diploma in Funeral Services which is a combination of a National Certificate in Funeral Services and National Certificate in Embalming and is a former President of the New Zealand Embalmers Association (NZEA).

Motivated by a desire to help people, Wade is committed to his work, to our company and to the people we serve. His expertise in every aspect of the business is vast. As well as conducting funerals himself, he manages the work of the company’s funeral directors to ensure the standards that set Dil’s apart are always met.

In a business where the unexpected is commonplace, his broad knowledge and easy-going personality mean he can make changes quickly and efficiently – and he is a calming presence when the pressure is on.

Wade’s career in the funeral profession began in 1987 following two years in the Royal New Zealand Navy. He is married to Michelle whom he met when he was just 16 and the couple have three children, Kellin, Jordan and Brie.

A dedicated family man, he enjoys watching his youngsters play rugby and netball for Orewa College during the winter and taking part in Red Beach Surf Club activities in the summer – and he manages to find some free time to go fishing near his Hibiscus Coast home.