Elroy Ardell Gullingsrud, age 86, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 1, 2017, surrounded by his children. Elroy was born December 26, 1930, in Edinburg, North Dakota to Elmer and Agnes Morstad Gullingsrud. The fourth of five children, Elroy lived with his family in Edinburg until he was 10 when they moved to Renton, Washington.
Elroy attended Renton High School until his senior year when he transferred to Issaquah High. After graduation in 1948, he worked at an assortment of jobs before joining the Boeing Company in 1950. Over the next 35 years, Elroy’s talents played out in a solid career at Boeing where he was an extremely valued employee, often sought after to contribute to many different programs. At the age of 55, he retired as a cost analyst.
In 1947, Elroy met the love of his life, Beth Leep, and they married in June of 1949. During their 68 years of marriage, they created many happy memories raising their family in Maple Valley. They loved the outdoors, and with their children and extended family, enjoyed boating, camping and snow skiing in the Northwest. Elroy also loved traveling and the sun. In later years Arizona called his name and they were off to find their 2nd home, spending nearly 30 years as snow birds.
A dedicated Christian, Elroy was a devoted husband, great Dad, and a dear friend. He was proud to be an American and showed his pride in all he did, including his service in the Naval Reserve’s from 1948 to 1955.
Elroy is survived by his wife Beth, his four children, including Herb (Carol) of Oceanside Calif, Karen, Ken (Cindy), and Bruce (Tricia) all in Washington; his sister Merril; seven grandchildren, Angie, Joel (Amanda), Eric, Jonny, Josh (Lindsay), Tyler (Lindsay), Justin (Alison); and six great-grandchildren, Mark, Sicily, Zeke, Cason, Brayden, Ivy; and by his nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Carrie, brothers Ordean, Gordon, and granddaughter Andrea.
A memorial service will be held at Greenwood Memorial Park. 350 Monroe Ave. NE, Renton, WA on November 18, at 12:30 p.m., followed by a brief graveside prayer. The family invites everyone to join them at the home of Ken and Cindy Gullingsrud 21403 NE 10th Place, Sammamish, WA for a celebration of life immediately following the services.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial donations be made to Kindred Hospice at kindredhealthcare.com/our-services/hospice/hospice-foundation/donate.
Comments and Condolences may be left on Elroy’s guest book at www.greenwoodmempark.com.
