Leo Albert Wise, 72, died July 18, 2011, at his Mt. Vernon home. A memorial service was held at Living Word Christian Center July 24. A potluck celebration of life followed at Clyde Holliday State Park.

Mr. Wise was born July 4, 1939, in Messner, Utah, to Leo and Emma (Poe) Wise. He married Caroline Fleming in Carson City, Nev., on Dec. 16, 1960. They had one son, and he later adopted a son and daughter.

He served as a private in the U.S. Army National Guard at Fort Ord, Calif. He was awarded the Marksman’s Medal.

In 1960, after his military service, he moved to Oregon where he worked at local ranches. He worked for Bates Mill, Hudspeth Mill and Prairie City Mill. He retired in 2005.

With a great love for the outdoors, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping with family and friends. He loved his dogs and horses, and enjoyed listening to Trail Blazers’ games on the radio. He cared about everyone around him and was willing to drop everything to help someone out.

Survivors included his sons, Clayton Wise of Mt. Vernon and John Wise of Eugene; daughters, Susan Wakefield of West Linn and Carrie Soy of Colorado; brother, Bill Wise of Redmond; and grandchildren, Jesse Wise, Crysta Wise, Ryan Wakefield, Megan Wakefield, Christen Wise and Damon Wise.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Caroline.

Memorial contributions may be made to Blue Mountain Home Health, Meals on Wheels, or directly to the family, through Driskill Memorial Chapel, 241 S. Canyon Blvd., John Day, OR 97845.