Don Le (Roy) Edwards |
| Posted 2008-11-11 by Pat Wilson |
| The Arizona Republic, Phoenix, Arizona October 5, 2004 Don Le (Roy) Edwards, 67, Son, brother, husband, father, friend, uncle, & grandfather. After waging a courageous battle with kidney cancer, Roy passed away in the comfort of his home on Sunday, October 3rd with his wife and children by his side. He will be dearly missed by his family as well as the many people whose lives he touched throughout his life. His genuine love for people were felt by all who knew him, and he will forever be remembered for his kindness to his fellowman. Don Le (Roy) Edwards was born December 15, 1936 in San Jose, California to William James and Donna Daniels Edwards who preceded him in death. Moving to Utah not long after, Roy was reared in Spanish Fork and became an accomplished four sport athlete in his teens. He loved athletics and his involvement in football, basketball, baseball, and tennis. After High School he attended Brigham Young University, which was interrupted for a short time to serve a mission to Sidney, Australia for the LDS church. Upon his return he finished his studies at BYU graduating with a degree in Business Management. He was actively involved in student life at BYU serving in several clubs and organizations, including the Vikings social unit and the Cougar Marching Band where he played the saxophone. He also served as President of the Associated Men's Students organization (AMS). While at BYU he met and married the former Diane Packard of Springville, Utah who has been both a devoted and faithful companion in over forty-three years of marriage. Diane was at his side throughout his battle with cancer and eased his burden with her extra efforts in his final year. Roy was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints having served in many callings through the years, including several bishoprics as both counselor and bishop, along with many teaching positions. He loved his association with, and found joy serving people from all walks of life. He seemed to bring out the best in others and had a way of helping people live up to and reach their potential. Truly, he was a champion for the underdog and loved to encourage others to achieve above their normal boundaries. Roy and his brother Bob spent over forty years together in the appliance business, first operating the appliance sections of the Woolco department stores, then opening their own store in 1972 on 29th Street south of Washington in Phoenix which they names "The Warehouse." As a business owner and entrepreneur he experienced much success throughout his life. He earned the Distinguished Service Award for "Entrepreneur of the Year" from the City of Tempe Jaycees organization and also served as a charter member and later as President of the Tempe East Rotary Club. His business had many faithful and happy patrons over the years with whom he loved to see and associate with. "The Warehouse" eventually became the fifth largest single store appliance dealership in the country. When his brother Bob retired in 1989, the name was changed to Roy Edwards Warehouse, where Roy prided himself in customer service and personal attention. His patrons could sense his genuine care and concern for their needs as he always went out of his way to make them happy. Roy was appreciative not only of his many customers, but of his faithful employee base who adopted his philosophy of doing "whatever it takes" to keep the customers happy and coming back, which they continued to do for many years. After closing the family business in 2002, he spent a short time working for and assisting the East Valley Home Depot appliance departments before his illness. Roy was an active valley sports fan and loved to involve his family, friends, employees, and associates in his love of sports competition. This stemmed back to his love of sports at an early age and also contributed to his "team player" attitude towards life. He had many fond memories of his association with the Phoenix Suns and Arizona State University Athletics, and enjoyed advertising with both organizations for the family business. Roy was also a big Arizona Diamondbacks fan and could often be found listening to their games during his illness. Roy is survived by his wife, Diane, and six children whom he loved dearly. He worked hard to give his children every opportunity and experience life had to offer for which they will be forever blessed. They will miss his guiding influence, but will also be blessed with that same influence as they continue life's journey. They include: Clark Edwards, Camille (& Claude Hepworth), Ryan Edwards, Stacey (& Bill Taylor), Heidi (& Lynn Nicoll), and Darin (& Alyssa Haggerton) Edwards. He is also survived by four wonderful brothers and sisters, which include: Robert Alan Edwards of Phoenix, AZ, JoAnn Gourley of Pleasant Grove, Utah, Janis (& Dr. Column Monk) of Tempe, AZ, and Diane (& John Wittorf) of Columbus, Ohio. Services were held at the LDS chapel at 1050 W. Grove Parkway, Tempe, AZ (SW of Kyrene & Elliot). Bunker's Garden Chapel handled the arrangements. Roy leaves behind a rich legacy of a life well lived and we celebrate the contributions he has made to leave the world a better place because of his influence. His contributions will continue to live on in the hearts of all those in whose lives he touched. The family wishes to thank all of those whose love, concern, and support were felt in his final year of life. Your kindness will not be forgotten. See Also: Mesa City Cemetery |
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