Carol A. Bates: 1953 – 2023
Carol Ann (Winter) Bates of Casper, Wyoming passed away peacefully at Life Care Center on August 7 after a long illness, with her husband Richard by her side. Carol was born in Casper to John and Patricia Winter on July 5, 1953. She attended Natrona County High School and graduated in 1971. After high school, she married Richard on April 22, of 1972 and they spent the first years of their marriage in San Diego while Richard served in the United States Navy. After Richard was discharged from the military, they returned to Casper to build their life together. They welcomed daughter Jennifer in June of 1974 and son Bill in July of 1978. Carol was a proud homemaker and spent much of her free time volunteering as a 4-H leader and club sponsor. Following in her mother’s footsteps, she devoted countless hours investing in the lives of the youth of Natrona County.
Carol was an avid lover of games. Some of her favorites included chicken foot, bingo, pinochle, farkle and bunco. The real goal of game time for Carol was not to win, but to enjoy quality time with family and friends.
Carol is survived by husband Richard of Casper; daughter Jennifer (Tyler) Orvis of Omaha; son Bill (Alexa) of Casper; brother John (Judy) Winter of Casper; sister Susan (Scott) Sojourner of Casper; sister Pamela (Donn) Mosser of Blue Springs, Missouri; and numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by parents John and Patricia Winter.
The family would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff of Life Care Center of Casper where Carol lived out the last years of her life. The love and care they showed gave great comfort to her loved ones. In lieu of flowers, the family would like to request donations be made to Life Care Center so they may use those funds to enrich the lives of current residents. Their mailing address is 4041 S Poplar St., Casper, WY 82601.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
I. Joan (Dudrey) Frederiksen: 1934 – 2023
Iris Joan Dudrey Frederiksen left this world holding her loving husband’s hand of 71 years on August 6, 2023. She was born February 3, 1934 to Richard and Murel (Taylor) Dudrey in Alva, Wyoming. Joan graduated high school from Sundance, Wyoming in May 1952, and married the love of her life, Karl Henrik Frederiksen on June 1, 1952. They were the first couple to be married at the First United Methodist Church in Sundance, Wyoming. Mom always giggled telling the story dad sure thought he was marrying a rich girl, as mom had $37.00 and that is what bought their first groceries after marriage. They raised their children; Richard, Vernon, Kendall, and Karla in Sundance, Montana, and finally settling in Casper January 1, 1968.
Over the years, Joan worked at K-Mart, Natrona County Sheriff Department, and retired from Casper College as the Duplicating Center Supervisor after 29 years; earning an award for never calling in sick one day of her 29 years of employment. Joan had many dear friends that she worked with at Casper College. Joan enjoyed playing Bingo and having lunch at the Senior Center on Thursdays. Karl would never go with her because he would say “He wasn’t old enough to go to a place like that.” Mom was a volunteer pink lady at the hospital.
Before Joan’s vision turned bad, she loved sewing, crocheting, putting puzzles together, and made many scrapbooks that we will cherish forever. She crocheted hundreds of baby hats over the years.
Iris is survived by her husband, Karl of 71 years; son Richard (Becky) of Casper, Wyoming; grandson Shawn (Jackie); great-grandchildren Isaac and Elyse; grandson Justin (Lexi); great-grandchildren Anden and Bennett, all of South Dakota; son Vernon of Casper, Wyoming; granddaughter Christine of Colorado; grandson David of Alaska; granddaughter Brittni (Ryan); great-granddaughter Kaia of California; grandson Cory (Agiee) of Colorado; daughter Karla Waters (Larry); grandson Eddy Lowndes III (Tami Vold Larsen); granddaughter Lindy Mundorf (Jeremy); great-grandchildren Carly Jo, and Tanner all of Casper, Wyoming; and bonus son Keith Boschee of Casper, Wyoming. She is also survived by her sister, Verna Cundy; brother-in-law Don Gose; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents; sister Irma Hutchins; and son Kendall Dean.
You never heard mom complain about anything! She always made the best of every situation. We will miss her dearly and are so blessed to know she was welcomed into Heaven with Kendall’s open arms.
We would like to thank the staff at Park Place Assisted Living for their love and companionship since mom and dad moved there in the spring of 2021. You are much appreciated!! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!! In lieu of flowers, please donate to Hospice Care.
Ruth Higgins: 1934 – 2023
Ruth L. Higgins, 88, passed away August 7at Meadow Wind Assisted Living in Casper, Wyoming. She was born in Ontario, California to Louis and Lora Boen. Ruth was raised in the Southern California area moving with her father’s jobs and occasionally would accompany him to the job site where she learned to properly use a hammer and pour and work concrete among other skills.
She met her lifelong sweetheart while living in Fallbrook, California while he was stationed at Camp Pendelton. Ruth married Donald Higgins and had a daughter, deciding to move to Wyoming when the baby was 6 weeks old. The rest of their story unfolded in Casper, Wyoming.
Ruth was a homemaker. She made clothes for her daughters, and herself. She became a marvelous cook; her beef and noodles are the best. But her specialty was homemade German Chocolate cake and frosting.
She learned to play golf to assist her husband with entertaining clients. A game she came to love, playing at Paradise Valley with the ladies’ team. She was also an excellent bowler, playing on leagues and even going to the National tournaments.
She is survived by her daughters: Judy Hawley (Richard), Donna Shoemaker (Steven) and Joy Cline (Click); six grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; her sister Dorothy Metzger; and numerous nieces and nephews. Ruth is preceded in death by her husband, Donald Higgins; son Eddie; sister Edna Hall; grandson Ronald Hawley; and her parents.
The family would like to express their gratitude to Caring Edge Hospice and Meadow Winds for their kindness, expertise, and support during this time.
Graveside services will be held at Memorial Gardens Friday, August 11, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. Bustard and Jacoby Funeral Home is entrusted with the care of Ruth.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Wyoming Dementia Care and Caring Edge Hospice would be appreciated.
James Kenneth “Jim” Hilbird: 1938 – 2023
James Kenneth Hilbird, 85, of Douglas, passed away on July 30, 2023, at Memorial Hospital of Converse County.
He was born on a farm in North Bend, Nebraska, on July 3, 1938 to Edward R. & Pauline E. (Ehrich) Hilbird. In the early 1940’s the family moved to Wyoming. Jim graduated from Rock River High School in 1957. He enlisted in the Navy in 1958 where he became a SEABEE and received his electrician education. Jim was released from active duty in 1962 and honorably discharged from the reserves in February of 1964. Jim was awarded a Medal of Valor for the Cold War for the Earthquake disaster during the hours of darkness in Morocco on March I & 2, 1960. James met the love of his life and best friend in August 1964, and soon married Leslie C. (Burns) Hilbird on December 26, 1964. Born to this union were three children.
He worked for Mountain Bell power line until 1971, when he started his mining career as a certified electrician with Energy Development underground mine, then to strip mines Arch Coal of Wyoming until 1985. In October 1985 Jim moved to Douglas and worked at Antelope Coal until his retirement in 2004. Jim then spent his retirement driving school bus until 2014. He enjoyed spending time with family, fishing, sports, traveling, and reading books. Jim also enjoyed league bowling and going to national tournaments with family and friends. Jim found pride in attending rodeos in Casper and Douglas, and attending and supporting his family that ran in the demolition derby’s. He belonged to many organizations including but not limited to the Masonic Lodge from 1962 till his death where he made many friends and memories. Jim never met a stranger.
James is survived by his wife of 58 years Leslie Cleo (Burns) Hilbird; children: Robin Hilbird-Bardgett (Joseph), Rhonda Jones (Michael), James Kenneth Hilbird Il (Laura); grandchildren: Toni Skaggs, Andrew Skaggs, Sydney Skaggs, Lesli Diana Hilbird, Alex Shadoan (Justin), Becky Hilbird; great-grandchildren: Vorian Stringer and Remi K-Lee Shadoan; his sister Karen (Bill) Benson; and numerous step-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; a brother Gerald Hilbird; and a sister Sharon Burgess.
Services will be held at Unity Christian Fellowship, 1523 Erwin St., Douglas on Saturday, August 19 at 2:00 p.m. Followed by graveside services with Military Honors and Masonic Last Rights. This all will be followed by a luncheon at the Masonic Lodge, 138 N. 4th St., Douglas.
A Naval Burial at Sea to be arranged at a later date.
Harold Benson Hubbard: 1928 – 2023
Dr. Harold B. Hubbard (Doc), 95, of Casper, Wyoming passed away on August 7, 2023 at Shepard of the Valley Hospice care.
Doc was born in Columbus, Ohio to Herman and Pearl Hubbard on January 20, 1928. He grew up around Buckeye Lake in Ohio with his brother Rollin.
At the age of 17, he joined the Navy to serve in WWII. After discharge in 1949, he enrolled at The Ohio State University, and earned a degree in Veterinary Medicine. He practiced Veterinary Medicine in Ohio for many years, later he left Ohio for California to earn a Master’s Degree in Public Health from UC-Berkley.
In 1962 Doc then became a professor at the University of Georgia where he taught Veterinary Science for several years. Later he moved to Washington D.C, where he served as the Public Health Advisor for Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), and The World Health Organization (WHO) for countries in South America. “Retiring” in 1983, he used his pension to buy a cattle ranch in the Little Snake River Valley, Baggs, Wyoming, where he spent the next 8 years ranching and practicing Veterinary Medicine.
He later moved to Arizona to be by his daughter, Jodie’s, side while she suffered through having ALS. After her death, he spent years traveling, and finally rested in Casper, Wyoming.
He lived here for many years enjoying the company of his companion, Bev McCarthy.
She was with him at his time of death, never leaving his side.
He was married and divorced four times. He loved his children: Jodie, Marc, Hal and Karen, and later in life he was reunited with a long, lost daughter Karen, whom he loved as well. This made for interesting stories at gatherings, explaining how the youngest Karen was named after the oldest Karen.
If you knew Doc, he always had a joke to tell. A man of great humor, intelligence, dreams, and generosity. He never knew a stranger, and if you had a license plate with WY County 6 on it, you were in for a long conversation! He loved his connection to the Little Snake River Valley, and continued to keep those connections until his death.
Dr. Harold B. Hubbard is survived by four children Karen Johnson of Sylva, NC, Marc (Chris) Hubbard of Columbus, OH, Hal (Toula) Hubbard of Waxhaw, NC, and Karen Colling of Casper, WY. 12 Grandchildren, and 6 Great Grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Pearl, his brother, Rollin, and a daughter, Jodie Jutry.
A private, family, funeral service will be held at Bustard & Jacoby Funeral home, he will be buried at Oregon Trail Veterans Cemetery in Evansville, Wyoming.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Legion, Casper post 2, or the Casper Humane Society.
Michael Rory O’Brien: 1941 – 2023
Michael Rory O’Brien passed away on Monday July 31, 2023 at the age of 81.
Born in Salida, Colorado, he lived in the Casper area from grade school until his death. He attended Georgetown University and majored in English. He served in the US Army in the 1960’s. Afterwards, he returned to Casper and worked for his father Bill’s title insurance company.
Throughout his life, he was an avid reader and never stopped learning new things. He enjoyed staying up to date on politics, Major League Baseball, Catholic spirituality, business news, stocks, and technology. He always had a quick rejoinder at the ready and a twinkle in his eye.
In June, he visited the Grand Tetons with his sister Frances’ family and told the family stories of being the yearbook photographer at Natrona County High, fishing in Jackson Lake, and serving on a military base in Germany.
He is survived by his sister Frances O’Brien; her husband J. Stanley Miner; and their children: Anna, Genevieve, and William.
A memorial service will be held at a time and place to be announced. Please call or text his niece Anna Miner to be updated: 206-383-9099.
Wayne David Soule: 1972 – 2023
Wayne David Soule, beloved husband, son, step-father, step-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away in Casper, Wyoming on July 30, 2023, at the age of 51. Funeral Services will be held at the Harness Funeral Chapel on August 12, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. in Buffalo, Wyoming with Lyle Harmon officiating. Interment will be in Willow Grove Cemetery with graveside services to immediately follow the funeral.
Born in Sheridan, Wyoming on April 18, 1972, to Dave and Sharon Soule, Wayne’s intelligence and creativity were evident from a young age, traits that would remain a constant throughout his life. Wayne graduated from the University of Wyoming, where he cultivated his passion for mechanical engineering. After graduation, Wayne worked for Hughes Aircraft in Los Angeles for two years, then moved to Denver and Gillette to design equipment for various mines. With this skill, Wayne was able to travel the world honing his craft and held patents for his designs. He went on to have a successful and fulfilling career at Austin Engineering, formerly known as Wotco and Westech in Casper Wyoming. Wayne’s colleagues admired him for his keen intellect and his ability to think outside the box, qualities that made him an integral part of the team.
Wayne was a man of many talents and interests, but it was his love of firearms that truly made him special. With his ability to design and instruct, Wayne led women’s firearm and self-defense programs and instructed shooting and firearms courses. He was intelligent, always seeking to learn more about the world around him. Wayne designed for and co-owned Wyoming Weapon Specialists. He was analytical, possessing the ability to dissect complex problems and find innovative solutions. But most importantly, he was creative, with a unique perspective that brought a spark of magic to everything he touched. Another hidden talent was his love for cooking and canning, especially during holidays while gathering with family and friends.
Beyond his professional achievements, Wayne had a love for games that stimulated his mind and imagination. He was always ready for a friendly game of Texas Hold’em Poker with family and friends. His love for strategy extended to the world of Dungeons and Dragons, where he was known for creating intricate narratives and memorable characters. These interests showcased his analytical mind and creative spirit, making game nights an event to look forward to.
In remembering Wayne, we celebrate a life well-lived. His legacy is not only in his professional achievements or his love for games, but also in the love he shared with his wife Debra and the friendships he nurtured throughout his life. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, a testament to a life filled with love, curiosity, creativity, and huge bear hugs.
Wayne is survived by his devoted wife, Debra Soule of Casper, Wyoming. Their love story was one of mutual respect and shared laughter, a testament to their enduring bond. Wayne’s legacy will also continue through his stepchildren, Brenda Kjos; her husband Justin; and their four children of Gillette, Wyoming; and Robert Bishop; his wife Cortney; and their two children of Gillette, Wyoming.
Additionally, Wayne is survived by his mother, Sharon Soule of Buffalo, Wyoming; twin sister, Jeni Soule-Byrd and her husband Sam of Casper, Wyoming; his nephew, Colin; and his extended family of numerous cousins, aunts, uncles, and many friends.
Wayne is preceded in death by his father, Stanley David Soule; grandfather, Stanley Loraine Soule; grandmother, Robena Soule; grandfather, Cliff (Junior) Bulkley and grandmother, Roberta (Tex) Bulkley.
Donations in Wayne’s name may be made to American Legion Powder River Post #13, 18 Veteran’s Lane, Buffalo Wyoming 82834 or VFW, 17 Veteran’s Avenue, Buffalo Wyoming 82834. On-Line condolences may be made at www.harnessfuneralhome.com.
Tammy Kay Trout: 1963 – 2023
Tammy Kay Trout, 60, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on Saturday, August 5, 2023.
She was born to the late Donald and Margaret Bockman, February 23, 1963, in Rapid City South Dakota. Tammy graduated from Edgemont, South Dakota High School in 1981, received a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Black Hills State University in 1986 and later earned a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Lesley University. She married Greg Trout in 1988 and they lived in Parker, Arizona, Cody, Wyoming and Midwest, Wyoming before settling in Casper in 1995.
Tammy was an elementary classroom teacher but her true passion was teaching reading to her young students. She was a Reading Recovery teacher for several years before returning to the classroom for her last few prior to retirement.
Tammy enjoyed camping, playing slot machines, chatting for hours on the phone with her sisters, but her greatest passion was spending time with her grandchildren.
Tammy is survived by her husband of 35 years, Greg; daughter Megan of Johnstown, Colorado; son Tyler of Casper, Wyoming; granddaughter Parker of Johnstown, Colorado; grandson Landon of Johnstown, Colorado; brother Bill of Fairmont, Minnesota; brother Steve of Greybull, Wyoming; sister Lori of Casper, Wyoming and sister Jill of Loveland, Colorado. She is preceded in death by her parents Donald and Margaret.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to Central Wyoming Hospice or Casper Humane Society.
Cremation has taken place. Services will be Friday, August 11 at 10:30 am at Grace Lutheran Church in Casper, Wyoming.
Roland Van Camp: 1930 – 2023
Roland was born in Chestfield, Illinois to Gilbert and Alberta Van Camp. After graduating high school, Roland joined the US Airforce and was stationed in Cheyenne, Wyoming where he met his beautiful wife, Roberta.
After being discharged from the service, they decided to move to Washington State to be closer to her family. They bought property just outside of Redmond and he built a log cabin house where they raised three children. He took a job with Boeing, where he remained until taking early retirement so could travel more. In 2007 they moved to Casper to be closer to their youngest grandchildren. He loved to travel and build houses, his wife, Roberta never had a completed house because something was always being worked on or added to.
Roland is survived by his wife of 69 years, Roberta; three kids: Lori Wagener (Washington) Alan Van Camp (Texas) and Julie Coberly (Wyoming). He also had six grandkids: Katina & Kristi Cason (Washington) Zack; Tahayla Kohtala; Travis and Taylor Coberly (all live in Casper, Wyoming), as well as four great-grandkids: Blakelyn (12), Kasen (9), Abigail (2 weeks old), and a baby on the way, due in 2024. Roland has one sister, Dorris Hillier (Illinois).
He is preceded by his parents, and sister Rosella Newton.
Judith C. Vang: 1941 – 2023
Judith Carolyn Vang, 81, of Glenrock, Wyoming was welcomed back to her heavenly home on the morning of August 3, 2023 in Casper, Wyoming. In her final day she was surrounded by her loving family who held her hands and recounted memories with tears and laughter all around.
Judy was born in Worland, Wyoming on October 3, 1941 to Thomas Bader and Mayme Bader of Ten Sleep, Wyoming, where she grew up with her three sisters: Sharon Ogg, Deanna Blincow, and Glenna Misomelius. She graduated from Ten Sleep High School in 1959.
Judy met the love of her life Clayton E. Vang in Casper, Wyoming and married August 6, 1966.
Judy worked for the Glenrock school district for 22 years until she retired in 2003 and shortly after obtained her substitute teaching certification. She continued working for the Glenrock schools as a substitute teacher until 2014.
Judy is preceded in death by her sisters Glenna & Deanna; her mother & father; her husband Clayton; and her daughter Jill A. Soetmelk.
Judy was a dedicated, loving mother & grandmother. She is survived by her two sons and daughter: Roy Vang of Gillette, Tom(Stacie) Seyfang of Casper and Diana(Steve) Fleck of Esterbrook; her sister Sharon(Alex) Ogg of Ten Sleep; as well as her 12 grandchildren & many great-grandchildren that loved her deeply.
A Celebration of Life & interment will be held on Saturday, September 2 at 1:00 p.m. in Ten Sleep, Wyoming Cemetery.
Memorial Donations can be made to the Glenrock Senior Center, P.O. Box 783, Glenrock, WY 82637
