LeRoy RED, Butch, Little feller Ralph Westgard

He is survived by a wife, Judy, two children: Jonathan L. (Barbara K.) and Jason W. Westgard. He also leaves behind two grandchildren, Sophia L. and Cooper R. Westgard, two sisters, Clara(Jerry) and Diana, two brothers, Robert(Debbie) and Richard(Irene), numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Born in Centralia, he grew up in Tacoma, and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1965. He served four years in the Air Force with a tour in Korea. After the military, Leroy went to work for Tacoma Boat, which led to a job at AeroJet engineering and testing the SES-100. LeRoy and his father got in the marine business creating Totem Marina/Marine Service along the Thea Foss Waterway in the 1970’s. They sold their interest in the marina in 1981, while keeping the service department. Totem Marine Service then expanded and he purchased land and moved the company across the waterway in 1992. Totem Marine Service remained in business providing excellent service to customers and repair of boats until 2006 when he sold the company. His success in business can be directly attributed to his work ethic and his magnetic personality. His attention to detail was legendary. He took pride in the fact that he always left his customers satisfied.

Red and Judy traveled to Mazatlán, Mexico for 15 years where long lasting friendships remain. He was known and respected in the Sinaloa community as Rojo. Later in life, they made the decision to travel stateside. They vacationed in Bullhead City, Arizona for 10 years before purchasing a home in the area and becoming snow birds, living down there during the winter months. In retirement, Red channeled his energy into fishing, gardening and especially golf. He could be found every Thursday on the course with the guys, followed by a trip to the Blackstar to settle up the money. Golf truly was his passion. The annual tournaments, weekends with Judy and friends, as long as it was warm, he would tee it up. He loved to watch 60 minutes on Sunday night. During the week it was always The Big Bang Theory, The Voice, and Cavuto. Most days were spent watching the stock market on FBN.

Red never wavered in his convictions. Right or wrong you always knew where he stood. He could have an engaging conversation with anyone. Well respected, infinitely loved, Red will truly be missed. In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years. The family wishes to thank UWMC, the staff at Capital Medical Center, Griffin Fire Department, and a special thanks to Dr. Min Kang of Vista Oncology.