DOUGLAS – Leslie M. (Earl) Schoen passed away on October 28, 2024, in Gillette, Wyoming at the age of 58.
Leslie is survived by her mother, Katheryne Earl of Torrington, brother Michael (Catherine) Earl of Penang, Malaysia, sister Laura Earl of Pensacola, Florida, nephew AJ (Jenny) Russell of Omaha, niece Aimee Russell of Denver, and many other family members. She is preceded in death by her husband Wade Schoen and her father Harry Earl.
Leslie was born on November 26, 1965, in Torrington to parents Harry and Katheryne Earl. She graduated from Lingle-Fort Laramie High School in 1984, attended Eastern Wyoming College, and received an associate degree in veterinary technology in 1986. After working for several years in veterinary clinics in Blackfoot, Idaho, Lusk, and Douglas, Leslie began employment at the South Antelope Mine, where she remained until her retirement in 2022. Throughout her 30+ years of employment at the mine, she was highly regarded not only as a skilled and dedicated worker, but also as a loyal friend and mentor. Leslie was always pleased to train anyone who was willing to learn, although, as anyone who knew her can attest, Leslie was a no-nonsense instructor who insisted upon the highest standards of safety and integrity. At her retirement, she was deemed “one of the coolest equipment operators in the basin” by her co-workers.
Leslie was passionate about hunting and fishing, and together with her husband Wade traveled extensively throughout her beloved home state of Wyoming and many other states such as Alaska and Oregon in pursuit of exceptional hunting and fishing experiences. On these trips, Leslie and Wade spent a lot of time with dear friends and co-workers. At home, Leslie generously gave her time to friends and neighbors, helping with home construction projects, livestock work, and children’s 4-H and FFA projects. She found these endeavors particularly rich and fulfilling during her retirement years.
Leslie’s ashes were buried in a private ceremony at the Jay Em Cemetery on Friday, November 8, 2024. A memorial to celebrate Leslie’s life will be held in Douglas. The date and location of this memorial will be announced at a later time, and all who knew and loved Leslie will be welcome to attend.
The family is grateful to the numerous friends and relatives who have extended their sympathy, support, and help following Leslie’s death. She touched hundreds of lives and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
