Leroy Birrell

Today, Monday June 13, 2011 saw the passing of LeRoy William Birrell. Roy has gone to join his parents who preceded him in death. He was born January 31, 1937 to Roy (Scotty) and Elda Webster Birrell in Cedar City, UT.

Roy attended school in Cedar City, moving to Salt Lake City in 1946 where he graduated from Olympus High in 1956. While at Olympus Roy participated in football, basketball and baseball, lettering in all three sports. Roy received a scholarship to Dixie Jr. College for football where he was instrumental in helping Dixie win the NCIC Championship in 1957.

After completing his associate degree, Roy joined the Marines. Roy qualified as a Master Scuba Diver and was assigned to a missile recovering unit at Hawthorne, NV. He also was a member of the Fleet Marine Force Rifle Team, winning a number of interservice matches and qualifying as a Master Shooter.

After his discharge from the Marines, Roy worked for Alum-a-Lock Siding Co. and was a part time State Parks Ranger. He had an opportunity to go full time as a Ranger, he did so, working his way up the ladder to Regional Manager. He received several citations and letters of commendation for a job well done. He retired to Ivins, UT after 26 years of service.

Roy loved nothing more than loading up his boat, heading for Lake Powell or the river to do some fishing. He was an accomplished trap and sporting clays shooter. He also was a low handicap golfer who didn't mind taking your money if you wanted to play.

Roy is survived by one brother, Ronald (Carol) Birrell, four nieces, one nephew, several cousins and seven grand nieces and nephews.

Private Memorial Services will be held at a later date.