Robert Samuel Wolford

After a life defined by love, strength, and devotion, our father passed away at home on Sunday, March 29th, with his “ever loving wife,” Shirl Jean, by his side for 53 years.

Born on October 31, 1938, in Allegheny County, Maryland, he carried a playful Halloween spirit, delighting in homemade pumpkin pie, Halloween masks, spooky music, and his favorites—beer, pizza, and laughter with family. His Halloween birthday may have been the catalyst for his always well-stocked candy drawer—something family could always count on.

At 17, he joined the United States Air Force, serving four years, and afterward moved to Arco, Idaho, where he worked as a delivery driver and learned skilled carpentry

He married Shirl Jean in June 1973, blending their families—he with three children, she with one—and together they had two more, raising six in all. Together, they designed and built their home in West Valley City, Utah, where they lived for 47 years—a place he first envisioned in his mind and brought to life through detailed hand-drawn plans and exceptional craftsmanship. Their marriage was full of respect, love, and laughter, hosting family gatherings, playing Yahtzee, and enjoying football, pizza, and popcorn. A swimming pool at their home became a centerpiece for family fun and lasting memories.

He loved the outdoors—camping, fishing, hunting elk and deer, and trips to Flaming Gorge. He practiced Wado-Kai karate for over 10 years, earning a 2nd-degree black belt, and introduced Shirl Jean, with whom he competed in tournaments for more than seven years. During their younger years raising the family, they spent countless hours traveling in their motorhome, enjoying fishing and hunting adventures.

For over 20 years, his Christmas spirit delighted family, friends, and strangers alike. He dressed as the most authentic Santa Claus, including a jolly “Ho Ho Ho,” surprising loved ones on Christmas Eve.

A lifelong fan of Elvis Presley, his music was always playing, and his home was filled with paintings, records, and memorabilia. After retiring from more than a decade of living and working in Las Vegas, he and Shirl Jean returned to their West Valley City home. In later years, though dementia affected his memory, it never diminished his love for the outdoors, his enjoyment of trips to Wendover and time at the slot machines, or the pride he found in landscaping his daughters’ yards.

He was honest, generous, and always ready to help, leaving a legacy of strength, laughter, and enduring love.

A Memorial Service Luncheon open house will be held in his honor on Friday, April 3rd, from 2–4 pm at Le Jardin Greenhouses, 1910 E Dimple Dell Rd, Sandy, UT.

In lieu of flowers, consider honoring his memory by planting a tree or supporting a meaningful cause.