The Labor state member for Newcastle from 1968 to 1988 was heavily involved in the Port Stephens area, particularly as one of the driving forces behind Harbourside Haven aged care centres at Port Stephens.

"He was a man of unshakeable principle and the community can be grateful for his dedication to the area when in public office," Port Stephens MP Craig Baumann said.

"I am sure I share the community's sentiments in passing on my condolences to his wife Heather and his family."

Mr Wade and his wife Heather had three children, Bill, Joanie and Barry. Their public life was mostly swept up in the politics of the Labor party. But not many people knew Mr Wade's efforts in WWII, becoming a prisoner of war and spending stints in Germany and Poland.

He kept a diary the entire time, reportedly using a specially-fashioned stamp made from a potato to give the impression his journal was approved and therefore not confiscated.

In more recent times he was one of the founders of the Hunter branch of the Cancer Council, a deputy lord mayor of Newcastle and a chairman of the RSL district council for nine years.