Serving the Big Horn Basin for over 100 years
Sheldon Lee Schilling, 91, of Ten Sleep, Wyoming, passed away peacefully at home on September 29, 2024 Born on June 1, 1933, in Grafton, Wisconsin, he was the beloved son of Carl Ernst and Wilhelmena "Minnie" Sophia (Wulff) Schilling.
A proud graduate of Grafton High School in 1951 and the University of Wisconsin in 1955, Sheldon dedicated much of his life to the oil industry. first as the owner/operator of Grafton Co-op Oil then years later in Wyoming as a pumper for Grace Petroleum.
An avid outdoorsman, Sheldon found joy in fishing, canoeing, trapping, and hunting, often sharing these experiences with family and friends. Both children and grandchildren cherish the memories of fishing on Renner Reservoir with him. He had a remarkable talent for woodworking and creating beautiful Christmas ornaments that everyone treasured each holiday season.
Sheldon's love story with Dolores "Dee" Margaret (Lemke) is one for the ages. High school sweethearts who lost touch, fate brought them back together 20 years later. They married on February 12, 1971 and spent the next 53 years creating a life filled with love, laughter and many surprises. Their bond was a testament to enduring love. One of their favorite adventures was that of owning and operating the Wyoming Café in Ten Sleep in the late 70's.
After retiring, Sheldon devoted his time to countless hours gardening, fishing, and enjoyed the thrill of coin collecting and finding the unusual coin in his collection. He also considered the Lions Club one of his top priorities.
Sheldon will be remembered not only for his craftsmanship and love for the outdoors, but also for the stories of fun and fishing in the mountains of Colorado and the lakes of Canada. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will continue to inspire his family and friends.
Sheldon was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Nola Eschedor and Caryl Fabian and stepdaughter, Vicki Harns. Survivors include his loving wife, Dee; their wonderful companion, Pudd the cat; daughter, Amy (Joe) Busch of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; stepson, Mark (Rachel) Fischer of Campion, Colorado; grandchildren: William Lee (Kristin) Harns III; Christopher "David" Harns; great-grandchildren: Payton, Sylvee, William Lee IV, Brettlee and Berlyn.
Memorial donations may be made to the Ten Sleep Library or Ten Sleep Ambulance. Checks may be sent to PO Box 524, Worland, WY 82401. As per Sheldon's wishes, no services are planned at this time. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be made at http://www.bryantfuneralhomeonline.com.