MAY 22, 1981 – MAY 17, 2021
Corey James Lengkeek, 39, of Douglas, WY passed away peacefully May 17, 2021 at Swedish Medical Hospital, Denver, CO, as a result of a motorcycle accident.
Corey was a beloved son, grandson, brother, uncle, nephew, and friend. He was born in Rapid City, South Dakota on May 22, 1981. Corey attended schools in Douglas, Wyoming and Chamberlain, South Dakota. Growing up Corey enjoyed hunting and fishing with his dad and brother, was active in several school activities, and he loved spending summers with his grandparents.
After graduating from High School in 2000 Corey enlisted in the United States Marine Corp where he served as an Ammunition Technician. While serving as a United States Marine, he completed his first mobilization in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was honorably discharged from Marine service in October of 2005. Corey continued his service as a member of the North Carolina Army National Guard, enlisting as an Infantryman, from October 2005 to February 2006.
In February 2006 Corey transferred to his home state of Wyoming, where he re-classed as an 89 Bravo, Ammunition Specialist. He continued serving with the Wyoming Army National Guard with honorable service for the next fifteen years in both the 960th Brigade Support Battalion and the 133rd Engineer Company. While serving with the Wyoming Army National Guard, he deployed twice in defense of his nation. First, from April 2009 to April 2010 to Iraq (Operation Iraqi Freedom), and second time to Bahrain (Operation Enduring Freedom) with the Engineers from April 2013 to March 2014.
Corey achieved 20 years of honorable service to his nation in December 2020, an act of selflessness accomplished by less than 1% of Americans.
Corey was known for his huge heart, his big "bear hugs", his contagious smile, his sense of humor, his strong will, and his fun-loving-spirit. He held such pride in serving his country. He loved his family and was proud to be an Uncle. He had a passion for the outdoors and hunting, and for riding his motorcycle and being in the Leathernecks MC Beartooth Chapter bike club. Corey never knew a stranger and loved his friends.
Corey's life was much too short, but in that time he touched many lives in small and large ways. He will be remembered and cherished forever.
Corey is survived by parents Keith and Diana, brother Casey, grandmother Tena, nephew Easton, several aunts, uncles, and cousins, as well as his many friends.
A Celebration of Life with Military Honors, will be held on June 2, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at the Douglas High School Auditorium, 1701 Hamilton Street, Douglas, WY.
