our team

Wade Steelman is a retired Navy Master Chief and dedicated entrepreneur. Following a distinguished military career, Wade retired in 2016 and transitioned his leadership experience into the private sector, founding and growing multiple successful businesses built on the same values of integrity and service he practiced in uniform.

He founded the Magic Memories Foundation to give the families of fallen Military, Law Enforcement, Fire, and EMS heroes something rare after loss: time to step away from grief and simply be together. Wade applies the same rigorous accountability and operational excellence he practiced throughout his military and private sector careers, ensuring every dollar is put to work for the families the foundation serves.

David Rickey is a retired CEO and former Chairman of Applied Micro Circuits Corporation (AMCC), where he led the company’s transformation into a multibillion-dollar global leader in technology. His decades of experience in executive leadership, corporate governance, and strategic growth now guide the Magic Memories Foundation. David’s oversight ensures that the foundation operates with the highest level of fiscal responsibility and long-term vision, providing donors with the confidence that their contributions are managed with world-class professional standards.

Micah Waterman is an active-duty military service member with firsthand knowledge of the sacrifices made by those who serve and the lasting impact on the families they leave behind. His current service and unique perspective provide a powerful voice for the foundation, ensuring our programs stay deeply connected to the needs of the military community.

Micah is dedicated to ensuring the families of fallen heroes are never forgotten and get the chance to heal together. His presence on the board keeps Magic Memories Foundation focused on serving those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.