Louis Richard Wingate's Obituary
Louis Richard Wingate, 63, of Lewes, DE, passed away surrounded by loved ones on Wednesday, January 25th, 2023. Born on August 29th, 1959, in Seaford, DE, he was affectionately known as Lou, Louie, Dickie, Dad, and Gomer; but his favorite title of all was Grampy. He was the son of the late John C. and Cynthia C. (McNatt) Wingate, and the brother of Jack Passwaters, William “Billy” Passwaters, Catherine “Annie” Newcomb, and John "Bobby" Wingate.
Louis graduated from Woodbridge High School and attended Sussex Vo-Tech. Louis married Melanie Stephens Wingate in 1998, and they were just 4 months away from celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary. He was the proud father of Josh Wingate (wife, Jenn Wingate; daughter, Emma), Andy Sheppard (wife, Sarah Sheppard), and Bailey Wingate. His granddaughter, Emma Wingate, was his pride and joy. Louis was employed by Dentsply Sirona for 33 years and also served in the United States Navy as an Aviation Machinist Mate for 10 years, specializing on the F-14 TomCat.
Louis was an active man who enjoyed volunteering as a Little League umpire, fishing, music, spending time with family, and playing with his granddaughter. He will be warmly remembered as a boatsman who did a lot of fishing but not a lot of catching, someone who loved making others laugh, and a dedicated practical jokester.
Louis was predeceased by his parents, siblings Annie, Billy, and Jack, and his dogs Reggie, Riley, and Bentley. He is survived by his wife, children, granddaughter, brother Bobby (wife, Roxie Wingate), several nieces and nephews, his cat Smudge, and his dog Nicky. Louis was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and many coworkers.
A memorial service will be held in his honor on Friday, February 17, 2023 at 11:00 AM, at Parsell Funeral Homes , Atkins-Lodge Chapel in Lewes, DE. Friends may visit beginning at 10:00 AM. Interment with military honors will take place at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro, DE 19966, at 1:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Brandywine Valley SPCA, https://bvspca.org/donate/, 22918 Dupont Boulevard, Georgetown, DE 19947, Phone: (302) 858-4203.
All who are unable to attend the funeral in person are invited to join via live stream by visiting: http://www.parsellfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/permalink/10855928/LTWebcast.
Please sign the virtual guestbook located on the tribute page.
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE DELIVER ALL ARRANGEMENTS BY 3:00 PM ON THURSDAY , FEBRUARY 16, 2023 TO OUR LEWES LOCATION.
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