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Darwin Van De Graaff Obituary
Ogden, Utah-Darwin Van De Graaff, 78, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 12, 2014 at Wasatch Care Center in Ogden with family present. Preceding his short stay at Wasatch Care Center, he was an active resident at Legacy House of Ogden, an assisted living center, where he made many friends.
Born in Ogden, Utah on August 10, 1935, he was the only child of Darwin Sr. and Beth Hilton Van De Graaff. He graduated from Ogden High School, attended Weber Senior College (Weber State University) and subsequently graduated from the University of Utah with degrees in Economics and Theater. While at university, he was a radio personality as well as a highly regarded actor of Shakespeare.
Darwin spent 3 years in the US armed forces serving tours of duty in the Allusion Islands and Korea. He was employed for 12 years at Hercules Chemical Company in the Computations Department where he met many of his long-time friends. He served 8 years as Executive Director of the Utah Petroleum Association and then served in similar positions in Montana, Colorado and New Mexico until his retirement as Executive Director of the New Mexico Oil & Gas Association. Darwin loved his career as an oil and gas lobbyist. And, many would admit he excelled at educating Congress, State Legislatures and the Public on all matters oil and gas.
In his youth, Darwin enjoyed the outdoors, including camping, hunting and fishing. He was a golfer and patron of the arts all his life. He was an avid reader, enjoying history, particularly Western and World War II. Darwin always admired the wit of smarts of Sir Winston Churchill and in many ways held him as a role model. He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
Darwin married Carole Turnquist, whom he had known since fourth grade, and was preceded by her in 2009. He is survived by son Wayne (Dr. Jessica Tan) and granddaughter MeiXia, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Per Darwin's request, formal memorial services will not be held. However, appropriate religious convictions will be observed.
Arrangements entrusted to Lindquist's Ogden Mortuary.
Send condolences to the family at: www.lindquistmortuary.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Darwin Van De Graaff
4 Entries
Ron Cavalier
February 10, 2024
Darwin and I were stationed on Shemya the Aleutians Islands in 1958 and 1959 and while he was 5 years older than I, we became good friends. I am sorry to see that he is no longer with us, but I am sure when this is over for all of us, we will be together once again.
Ron Cavalier
January 22, 2021
We were stationed together on Shemya AK (Aluetian Island Chain) from 1958 until 1959.
He was without a doubt the biggest guy on the island and he was my friend. I am sorry I did not try to find him sooner.
Somewhere in my photo collection I have a picture of Darwin standing in front of the operations building which said 281st USASA Co.
Sara Gorringe (Derbidge)
February 16, 2014
Van and Carol will always be in my heart. I remember his tall stature, and witty nature. I remember when I was young, visiting Van and Carol in Montana and how welcome I felt with my parents and sister. Van and Carol always seemed to be very willing in lending a helping hand when needed. Most of all, I remember Van always bringing me Fernwoods Mint Sandwiches whenever he and Carol came to town to visit. I am very happy to know that Van and Carol are happy and together again.
Janis Nichols Rowser
February 16, 2014
Wayne,
It's been many years, but reading this obit made me reflect on many fun times we shared together in our younger days. May the many great memories you have of your father bring you comfort and peace at this time of sorrow.
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