| Leonard William Steggell May 22, 1940 – May 3, 2021 |
On May 3, 2021, Leonard William Steggell, loving husband and father of five passed away at his home in Philomath, Oregon at the age of 80. Leonard was born on May 22, 1940 to Howard William and Thelma Lottie (Donnelly) Steggell. He enjoyed his childhood on his family’s farm at the mouth of East Millcreek Canyon, Salt Lake City, Utah, participating in 4H activities and later building and racing Ford Model A’s.
Leonard exhibited a fascination with machinery early in life and, following high school, achieved an A.A. in Automotive Technology from Salt Lake Technical College. After a 2-year religious mission in Western Canada, he earned his Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering from Utah State University in 1967. He then focused on Quality Assurance in manufacturing throughout his career.
On September 11, 1964 he married the love of his life, Carmen Dobson Steggell. Together they raised five children.
Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, brother Howard Donnelly (Don) Steggell, and sister Betty LaRue Steggell Webb. Leonard is survived by sister Dorene Steggell (Richard Shield), his wife of 56 years Carmen, and his five children: Valerie Steggell-Earl (Shawn), Aileen Steggell Pace (John Allen), John William Steggell (Andrea Ray), Sarah Harper (Scott), and Mary Steggell Arevalo (Raul). Leonard has eight grandchildren and two step-grandchildren.
Leonard had a sharp mind and a love of learning that he shared with Carmen and his children. He could fix anything and loved teaching others. He spent many hours throughout his life building things: early in life restoring Model T and Model A cars, and later in his woodshop using only vintage hand tools. His beautiful Shaker-style furniture and his farm and vehicle replicas are family treasures. He was most proud of his wife and children and supported us all in pursuing our dreams.
He was known for his kindness and generosity to all who knew him. He will be missed immensely. Condolences may be shared at www.demossdurdan.com.