Gail “Chump” Wigans

Gail “Chump” Wigans, 82, of Humboldt, passed away January 31, 2010 at his home.  Services will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at the Faith United Methodist Church in Humboldt with the Rev. Walden Paige officiating.  Visitation will be from 4:30 – 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the church.  The Mason-Lindhart Funeral Home of Humboldt is assisting the family.

Gail Leroy Wigans was born to Roy and Celia (Speich) Wigans on July 20, 1927 where he joined two sisters and two brothers.  Gail attended Vernon Consolidated School for his elementary and high school education where he participated in basketball and baseball. He was a member of the Vernon 4-H Club where he enjoyed showing cattle at the county fair and playing on their 4-H Basketball team where they won two County Tournaments.  After graduation from High School, Chump started farming the family farm. On August 24, 1960 he married Phyllis Gregersen of Rutland, the Daughter of James and Maggie Gregersen, and to this union four children were born.  The couple retired from farming in 1991 and made their home in Humboldt.

Gail enjoyed horseback riding and the trip to the Black Hills with his family to ride horses was one of his favorite memories.  He also enjoyed camping with his family and friends.  His grandchildren were the joy of his life and he enjoyed watching and attending their activities until his health prevented him from doing so.  He attended church at the United Brethren Church in Renwick where he was baptized and then joined the Faith United Methodist Church when he and Phyllis moved to Humboldt.

Gail’s smile, one of a kind laugh, and funny come backs will be missed by all.  He thoroughly enjoyed everyday of his life and loved spending time with his family and friends.  His children will remember home as being the greatest dad and for his undying love and support that he showed them each and everyday of his life.

Mr. Wigans is survived by his wife, Phyllis of Humboldt; son, Tom Wigans of Humboldt; daughters, Lauri (Larry) Beilke of Humboldt, Paula (Kevin) Skow of Humboldt; and Stacy (Travis) Tate of Renwick; grandchildren, Trista and Trey Thompson; Kiersten and Shelby Beilke, Colton and Shanee Tate, Amanda (Devin) Bermudez, Jenna (Mike) Poch, and Sarah (Brent) De Shaw; great grandson, Ethan Poch; brother Glen “Bud” (Irma) Wigans of Humboldt; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Celia Wigans; brother, Gerald Wigans; sisters, Gladys Metzinger and Genevieve Bohannon; and a niece and nephew.