Bob R. Wingfield

Bob Roy Wingfield, 89, of White Bird, Idaho, passed away on Thursday, September 28, 2023 at his home with his wife by his side. Born on November 8, 1933, in Mount Ida, Arkansas. Bob was the youngest of six children. Bob was a beloved husband, father, uncle, and grandfather. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Bob was a hardworking and talented individual who approached every task with utmost dedication. Throughout his life, he pursued various careers, including fruit picking from California to Canada as a youth. His senior year in high school, Bob's parents chose to pick fruit elsewhere, but Bob chose to stay in Porterville, CA. He slept in a canvas tent under the stars in the orchard, ate school lunch and had dinner at his sister's house until he graduated. Bob then fought fire for the USFS, worked on bridges, dams and schools, a sawmill in Burns, Oregon, cannery and docks in Whittier, Alaska, and the Los Angeles Courthouse.

Bob married the love of his life, Lana Kay Aberg, on December 31,1970 in Redding, California. Bob gave Lana the choice to move to Canada or Idaho. They moved to Idaho in 1971 and have never left.

Bob was a contractor for the winterization program for Idaho County Power and Light for many years and traveled to the far corners of the county. Bob was gifted in carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work and built the White Bird Motel, a shop for Les Schwab, around 30+ homes in the area, and too many remodels and additions in the area to count. Bob's commitment to his work continued well into his 80s, exemplifying his strong work ethic.  

In addition to his professional pursuits, Bob had a passion for the outdoors and cherished his time in Idaho. He enjoyed hunting, reloading, fishing, trap shooting, and rifle shooting. Bob was also a Golden Glove boxer and a Judo black belt instructor. His love for animals extended to his dogs, cats, horses and mules who brought him great joy.

Bob was a kind-hearted individual who always saw the best in people. He had a knack for storytelling and would often captivate others with his tales. His positive outlook on life and his ability to find joy in every situation made him a cherished presence in the lives of those who knew him.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Lana Wingfield, his son, Mark Wingfield, his daughters, Becky Frost, Jody Wingfield, and Deborah Wingfield, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father, Hiram Frank Wingfield, his mother, Oma McGough, his sisters, Louise Cranfield and Hazel Spears, and his brothers, Ed "Doc" Wingfield, Guy "John" Wingfield, and Hiram "Bill" Wingfield.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 21, at 11:00 am in White Bird, Idaho in the IOOF Hall with a potluck following. Arrangements are under the direction of the Blackmer Funeral Home, Grangeville. Send condolences to the family at blackmerfuneralhome.com. Donations can be made in his name to the Grangeville Health and Rehabilitation or Syringa Hospice.

Bob Wingfield will be remembered for his unwavering dedication, his love for his wife and family, and his zest for life. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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