He was born in Amboy, Washington, and attended the University of Oregon. He was a builder and businessman.[2] Wingard served one term in the Oregon House of Representatives from 1969 to 1971 prior to his election to the senate. He ran for State Treasurer of Oregon in 1980 and 1992. He also served on the city council of Eugene, Oregon. Currently a Democrat, At 87 an avid antique race car restorer and race car driver at Laguna Seca and at the Goodwood Festival of Speed[3][4]