Leo Dale Wingrove

Leo Dale Wingrove, born in a humble hollow in Bull Run, West Virginia, on March 7, 1949, left us peacefully on December 15, 2023, in Ivins, Utah.

Leo's childhood was a testament to simplicity, growing up without electricity, indoor plumbing, or running water until the age of 11. His early years were marked by camaraderie with his grandfather, teaming up to clean oil wells, and mischievous antics in his Grandmother's kitchen, especially when freshly baked bread and pies were involved. He also enjoyed working with his Dad to restore old cars.

A graduate of Parkersburg High School in 1967, Leo cherished the reunions that allowed him to reconnect with his schoolmates. Following high school, he dedicated four years of his life, from 1968 to 1972, to the Air Force, serving in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. Leo faced health challenges later in life, attributed in part to the effects of "Agent Orange," a fact acknowledged by the U.S. Government only in mid-2023.

Leo found fulfillment in his career as a sheet metal worker, a journey that concluded when he and Dolores ("Dee"), his life partner of 20 years, retired to Ivins, Utah, in October 2008. Despite numerous health setbacks and battles with cancer and COPD, Leo's resilience and positivity never wavered. In 2004, he suffered three heart attacks within four hours and was considered clinically dead. Doctors revived him, and Leo told a story of seeing a brilliant white light. His Dad and Grandmother were there to greet him. He recalled his Dad telling him, "Bud, we are not ready for you. Go back. You have things to take care of." His Dad was the only person who ever called him "Bud."

He lived his life as a testimony to his philosophy: "If there is something you want to do, do it because you don't know what tomorrow may bring." Leo and Dee embarked on adventures like traveling to California and Alaska and revisiting West Virginia and Ohio to connect with family.

Leo felt a spiritual connection to Southern Utah, particularly Snow Canyon, which he explored joyfully. Nature and God's creatures, especially hummingbirds and road runners, were special in his heart. His generosity extended to the local canine residents, whom Leo and Dee showered with treats, water, and love.

A member of the Jeep community, the St. George Jeepers, Leo embraced the fellowship the Jeep Jamborees brought. Despite being an introvert, Leo had a knack for making friends and opened his home to anyone seeking companionship. His garage was a sanctuary where he worked on his cherished Jeep and collaborated on projects with friends. Leo's kindness knew no bounds; he was always ready to help others without expecting anything in return.

Leo's last endeavor involved repurposing agave plant cuttings into walking sticks. He had a knack for finding opportunities in everything. He also saw the best in people. Summer nights found him in the driveway, surrounded by friends, gazing at stars, satellites, comets, and constellations.

Leo is survived by Dee Foster, life partner of twenty years; Mother, Regina Oldham; sister, Linda Bryden; brother, Dallas Wingrove and his wife Cheryl; daughter, Angie Wingrove; grandsons, Colton, Leo, and Joe; and several nieces and nephews. Preceding Leo was his Dad, Lester Wingrove.

As we remember Leo, let us not mourn his departure but celebrate his entry into a different realm, where he continues to find joy in the cosmos. Leo Dale Wingrove will be dearly missed but forever remembered in our hearts for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit.

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