Les Wilcken

Les Wilcken, age 68, of Upalco, passed away July 25, 2011, at the Uintah Basin Medical Center from an apparent sudden heart attack.
He was born June 5, 1943, in Heber City, to Joseph Eugene Jr. and Verda Lola Jones Wilcken. He married Meda Mecham Duncan, later divorced. He married his eternal companion Carolyn Nix Krissman on July 20, 2002, in the Vernal LDS Temple.
Les always gave more than was expected and surprised many with his generosity. His word was his bond and his dependability was unmatched. He always tried to work harder, faster, and better than anyone else and took great pride in a job well done. He had a "Heart of Gold", and was the first to offer his help and resources. He put everything he had into everything he did. He grew up on a farm and loved working with the earth, often pushing himself too hard because "you've got to do what you've got to do". He was proud of his crops. Although not feeling well, his final activity was changing his wheel lines.
He enjoyed working on the grounds crew at Roosevelt golf course. He had a passion for flying and loved his airplane. He was a beekeeper and many people enjoyed his honey. He was quite the tease and, when in better health, an avid dancer. He was active in the LDS Church and held various callings, including temple ordinance worker.
He dearly loved his family and was very devoted to them. "Papa Les" adored his grandchildren – they were the light of his life. His passing has left a huge hole in a lot of hearts.
Les is survived by his wife, Carolyn, of Upalco; children, Matt (Letitia Abbott) Krissman, Duchesne; Ryan (Annie) Krissman, Kayenta, Arizona; Ashley (Mike Ivie) Krissman, Roosevelt; grandchildren, Chase and Rylan Krissman, Marielle, Malichi, and Hailey Ivie; Ryann and Carter Krissman; brother, Neil (Janae) Wilcken, Vernal; sisters, Maxine Marstella, Texas; Julie Dove, Pennsylvania; and sister-in-law Addie Wilcken, Upalco.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Lynn and Dennis.
Funeral services were held Saturday, July 30, 2011, at the Altamont LDS Stake Center.
Burial was in the Roosevelt Memorial Park. Condolences may be shared at www.hullingermortuary.com