Leo was a generous and humble man. He was born in Oakland CA., but preferred mountain living. He never had children of his own but was a loving step father and grandfather who was always there for his family. He had a great sense of humor and loved making people laugh with his practical jokes. He was especially skilled at the art of water fights. We miss those summer days when we had to contend with his water artillery. Usually him waiting on the roof with the hose over the front door.

He served in the Marine Corps from 1968 to 1971 and in the Navy in 1974-75 and 1977 -78. He was active in the local Vietnam Veteran’s chapter and had many friends. His hobbies included miniature trains, working on cars, and black powder shooting.

He was an airline transport pilot, a flight instructor for 28 years and an airframe mechanic. He had 9000 hours of total flight experience, with 875 hours in the Cessna T337C that he was flying last. He also had flown and taught in Pipers and Beechcraft’s. He also he had 3,500 hours of mountain flight experience. He had worked for Courtney Aviation, been corporate pilot for Mt. Lassen Motors in Susanville CA., a chief pilot and Director of operations for Alexander Sierra airlines and a Charter pilot for Carlen flying service both in Columbia, CA. He flew and taught for Sweet Flying Service in Visalia and Columbia, CA., Tyler Skyharbor in Texas, in Norfolk, VA., Sierra Academy of Aeronautics in Oakland, Hayward and Oakland, CA.

We miss you Leo and we will never forget how you loved our mother and how your loved us and your grandchildren. Thank you for the sacrifices that you made for our family and your country. We love you.