Louis 'Louie' Willard Girardo
March 20, 1929 - September 22, 2021
Our beloved Father, Grandfather, and Great Papa Lou passed away Wednesday, September 22nd joining his wife, Norma, at the fishing hole on the other side.
Louie was born in Leadville, Colorado to James and Sarah Girardo. In middle school, his family moved to Ogden, Utah where he met "the prettiest girl he'd ever seen" bouncing a ball at the top of the stairs of their middle school, Norma. The two were married for 61 happy years and made countless memories together fishing (especially at Hoop Lake), camping and raising their three children (Lois Eardley, James Girardo, and Terri Ongley) and one granddaughter (Michelle Robison) together.
Though Louie was a man of few words, he cared deeply for all of his family and friends and would selflessly do anything to help them whenever they needed. Louie had a very rich work-life with many great experiences. He worked as a brakeman for the Union Pacific Railroad for over 40 years and made many, long-lasting friendships while he was there. He also worked as a guide for Mackinaw fishing at Flaming Gorge, refereed wrestling, and put his green thumb to use by providing the landscaping at Willow Creek Country Club. He enjoyed all things outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman. After his retirement in 1991 you could always find him at a lake with his family and friends.
Norma's passing in 2007 was very difficult for Louie and he looked to family, friends, his dog Marlie, and hobbies to keep him busy. He enjoyed gardening in his beautifully landscaped yard, taking his dog up to Strawberry to go fishing, and making clocks for his loved ones. Louie became a member of a retirement club where he served as their bartender for social events and where he met Beverley Thrall. He was lucky enough to find love and companionship with Bev for the last decade of his life. They were both fans of the Utah Jazz and held season tickets for many years. They also had a lot of fun going to plays and other events. The two went on many adventures together including countless trips to Wendover where Louie enjoyed playing 21, an Alaskan cruise, fishing for macs at Flaming Gorge and a few train trips as well.
A fishin' we will go! A fishin' we will go! A-hi-weeny-weeny and A-hi-poh-poh!
A Celebration in Louie's honor will be on Wednesday, October 6, 2021 at 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Starks Funeral Parlor located at 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City, Utah. We invite family and friends to join us to celebrate the legacy that Louie left behind. Graveside services will Thursday, October 7, 2021 at 2:00 pm at Murray City Cemetery located at 5490 South Vine Street, Murray, Utah.