Obituary of Leslie N. Gove

Leslie N. Gove passed away peacefully on April 1, 2005 in Auburn. Les “Bud” Gove was born at Auburn General Hospital on August 31, l923. He attended school in Auburn and has resided here his entire life. His father, Leslie J. Gove, served as Mayor of Auburn. The Les Gove Park was named after him. Les and his wife Evelyn enjoyed many hours at the park with children and grandchildren. Les served in the US Navy from l943 to March l946. He was a Radio Man Third Class during WWII servicing in the Asiatic Pacific Area Campaign and the Philippines. He trained and served in underwater demolition also. Les enjoyed tinkering on cars and started out as a mechanic with Bothell Chevrolet after being discharged from the Navy. He married Evelyn Brevig on May l0, 1047. They established their home in Auburn and lived there throughout their 57 years of marriage. Evelyn passed away on April 9, 2004. Les continued to work at various auto dealerships as a Parts Department and Service Department Manager in the Auburn community until he retired in August l985. Les tried his hand at Commercial fishing in the mid 50's but returned to work in the Auburn area. Les, Evelyn and daughters Beverly and Susan enjoyed many camping and fishing trips as the girls grew up. The summer vacations continued as their families grew, adding husband and grandchildren to great memories. Les and Evelyn became “sunbirds” after retirement and traveled to Arizona and California in their motor home for many years. Les and Evelyn were members of the Messiah Lutheran Church. Les participated in The Auburn Elks and the Reo Verde Golden Kiwanis. Survivors: Daughter: Beverly Thomas, Olympia, WA Daughter: Susan Pinkham, Tacoma, WA Sister: Barbara Lerch, Marysville, CA 4 grandchildren and 1 great-granddaughter Funeral Services will be held at Messiah Lutheran Church, Auburn on Friday April 8, 2005 at 11:00 AM. Inurnment will be in the Mt View Cemetery, Auburn.