Richard Ennis Wingate, our beloved husband, father, brother and friend to many, passed away on December 15, 2021, in Pomona, California. He was born November 14, 1942 in Los Angeles, California to Mildred and Ennis Wingate.
Richard lived in Mt. Baldy, California most of his adult life.
After graduating from Upland High School in 1960, he began his career with the U.S. Forest Service, where he was a crew boss and lead on a hotshot crew. Richard went on to work in the preventative maintenance departments at a number of area organizations, eventually retiring from the Claremont Colleges.
Richard proudly joined the Army, and went on to serve in the California National Guard.
However, Richard's true calling was that of a volunteer firefighter for the Mt. Baldy Fire Department for over 33 years.
He lived to help others, educate people about the San Gabriel Mountains and work to preserve the mountains.
His career and personal interests centered around the outdoors and exploration. He loved hiking, metalsmithing and reading. Since he was a boy Richard explored California and the west, visiting abandoned mines, hidden trails and forgotten towns.
His cheeky side was a source of great laughs for those who knew him. He delighted in playing tricks on unsuspecting friends and colleagues, which were usually followed with a memorable, genuine and infectious belly laugh.
Richard leaves behind a wife of 43 years, Sheryl Wingate, two daughters, Sydney Lamb(Todd) of Annapolis, Maryland, Sarah Schreder (Skovran) of Greenwich, Connecticut, a son, Evan Wingate (Carolyn) of Mt. Baldy, California; grandsons Hayden and Hudson Lamb; granddaughters Claire and Charlotte Schreder; sisters Julianna and Nancy; nephew George Maxie; and nieces Tamara Jensen and Calley Ekberg.
He was predeceased by his grandson, Henry Ralph Schreder.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Richard's memory are requested to be sent to the Mt. Baldy Fire Department. The family will celebrate Richard's life at a future gathering.
To offer online condolences please visit https://www.kudoboard.com/boards/m4vFtZL3
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.stonefuneralhomeupland.com for the Wingate family.
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