William Merton Wardle

 William Merton “Bill” Wardle, age 78, of Duchesne, Utah, passed away October 21, 2020, with his loving wife Susan at his side.
    Bill was born on December 2, 1941, in Duchesne, Utah to John Merton and Gabriella (Rella) Williams Wardle, the oldest of ten children. He grew up in Duchesne and graduated from Duchesne High School in 1960, where he played basketball and baseball. He loved growing up in Duchesne, and especially enjoyed the many summers spent at his grandparent’s farm on the Strawberry River, as well as shenanigans with his friends. He was the best big brother and did all he could to take care of his siblings.
    He met his lifelong love, Susan Shearer, at a Johnny Cash concert in Salt Lake City, and after a courtship, they were married on November 23, 1962. Together they raised their four daughters in Duchesne. Bill attended Salt Lake Technical College and had a successful career in the Uintah Basin with his business “Certified Welding”. Bill and Sue built a cabin on Tabby Mountain early in their marriage where many wonderful family memories were made, including numerous cherished hunting trips.
    Bill had a dream to raise Registered Texas Longhorns, and he and Sue saw that dream come to fruition when they purchased their ranch north of Duchesne on the River Road. Many years were spent working the longhorns, traveling to longhorn shows, and living the cowboy life that he loved. Priceless memories were always made on branding day and he treasured spending these days with family and friends. Bill had many other interests including snowmobiling, his antique cars, driving the royalty in parades and rodeos, saddle-making, hunting, and fishing.
    He always loved watching his kids and grandkids play sports or whatever activities they were involved in. Bill and Sue enjoyed winters in St. George the last several years, but he always loved coming back to his beloved Duchesne in the spring. He enjoyed many great friendships throughout his life and treasured every minute spent with his friends. Bill was the most genuine guy around, always his authentic self – take it or leave it, honest to the core, used up a few more lives than most cats are given, and had the biggest heart hidden underneath that tough exterior and those salty greetings!   
    Bill loved his family completely and worked tirelessly to provide for them. His pride in his family was unmatched and he made each of us feel unique and loved. He thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his grandkids as well, traveling to attend many events over the years. Nothing put a sparkle in his bright blue eyes like his grandkids did.
    Bill is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Susan Shearer Wardle, daughters, Nova Lee (Steve) Hanke, Smithfield, UT; Audra Jan (Michael) Pike, West Jordan, UT; Sharly Sue Littlefield (Jeremy Lefler), Washington, UT; grandchildren: Michael (Arleigh), Kyndra (Tyson), Garrett (Adree), Jordan (Lexi), Keaton, Treyden, Easton, Dax, Shantel, Alyssa (Steven), Connor, Amanda (Jadyn), Tyler (Alexie); great-grandchildren: Juleigh, Enzo, Petra, Mila, Will, Maylee, Violet, Kezlynn, Dayton, Axxtyn, Layla, Lillian, and Trayston. Siblings, Virginia (Jimmy) Brotherson, Mtn. Home, UT; Rhea (Monte) Johnson, St. George, UT; Karen (Brent) Daybell, West Jordan, UT; Linda (Dave) Powell, Kamas, UT; Trudy (Dick) Johnson, Park City, UT; Mike (Glenna) Wardle, Stansbury Park, UT; and Andy (Joni) Wardle, Sandy, UT; and numerous nieces and nephews.
    He is preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws, Edward and Dorothy Shearer (Bill was a diamond in the rough!); son, Leonard Jed Wardle; daughter, Lenne Brin Wardle Turley; brothers, Bradley Wardle and Reed Wardle.
    A special thank you to friends, neighbors, loved ones, family, and all of the ministering angels who have served Bill and Sue throughout his illness. Words cannot adequately express our appreciation.  
    Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2020, at 2:00 PM at the Duchesne Stake Center, 901 North 500 East, Duchesne. A viewing will be held on Friday evening, October 23, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the church.
    Burial will be in the Duchesne City Cemetery.  
    Please note that masks will be required at the family’s request and church guidelines. Please abide by social distancing guidelines set for COVID-19.