Emmett Lee Sulgrove passed away on July 9, 2022, in Richland, Washington at the age of 88 years old. He was born in Clayton, New Mexico, November 24, 1933. Emmett and his family moved out west in 1942 and chose to plant their roots in Springdale, Washington. It was there that Emmett married his bride, Marion “Babe” Banks. Together, they raised their family, and were married for 64 years.
Emmett spent most of his life working and being a provider for his family. He became a truck driver hauling logs for Deer Park Pine, and later drove for Rex Rainbolt Trucking, S & F Construction, and Inland Asphalt, where he retired in 1995. Emmett took pride in his work, and he was proud to have helped build many major roads throughout the northwest such as the North Cascade Highway, and the freeway that runs from Spokane down to the Tri-Cities area, as well as many major road developments throughout the Spokane area.
When Emmett wasn’t working, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cards, pool, horseshoes, and most of all supporting his grandchildren at all their sporting events.
Emmett believed in helping your neighbor and making your community better. That showed in the way he lived his life in Springdale. Emmett was a volunteer firefighter for 30 years, a longtime member of the Springdale Frontier Days Rodeo committee, and an active member of the high school Booster Club that supported all sports.
After retiring, Emmett could be found at the local café early in the morning visiting with old friends, and new.
He is survived by his wife Marion “Babe” Sulgrove, son Tom Sulgrove of Valley Washington, son Dan Sulgrove (wife Leslie) Springdale, Washington, son Brad “Kim” Sulgrove (wife Mary), of Valley, Washington and daughter Vicki Wentz (husband Craig) of Prosser, Washington. 12 grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren.
Proceeded in death by: Father Jess Sulgrove, Mother Mary Sulgrove, siblings Mona Runcorn, Guy Sulgrove, Roy Sulgrove, Bob Sulgrove, Jess “Shug” Sulgrove Jr, Jack Sulgrove, and Clark “Sandy” Sulgrove.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 22, at 11:00 am at the Springdale Community Church, with a luncheon at the Grange Hall, and graveside services later in the day. Memorial contributions can be made to the Springdale Community Church, 420 Main Street, Springdale, WA. 99173
