Leslie Elba Foiles

Les is survived by his three daughters: Pamela Patterson, Colorado Springs, CO; Holly Hewson, Deland, FL; Kim Foiles, Lolo, MT. He has seven grandchildren: Taylor Patterson, Steamboat Springs, CO; Julia Patterson and Kelsey Patterson both reside in Colorado Springs, CO; Brian Hewson, West Dundee, IL; Caitlyn Hewson, Portland, ME; Quinn Andrews, Ferndale, Washington; Chloe Andrews, Lolo, MT. Les is preceded in death by his wife, Barbara, parents, his brother, Lee Foiles, his two sisters, Ruth Foiles and Gail Pospahala.

Les was born on September 27, 1926 in Kampsville, IL to Elba Foiles and Alice Kennedy-Foiles. Les attended Boulder High School. He enlisted in the Navy right before his 18th birthday in 1944. He was a Fireman 1st class. He married Barbara Lynn, who he met through a blind date. After moving back to Illinois, Les worked at Western Electric/ATT as an Environmental Safety engineer for 36 years. In 1987, he retired and moved with Barb to Estes Park. Their daughters remember him as a funny, compassionate and talented man; famous for his jokes and mechanical talents.

Les had a passion for cars. He built a bright red Cobra kit car when he first moved to Estes and loved to drive it on (only) sunny days- top down, of course! He often shared his joy by giving rides to others, including nursing home residents. Such a treat for all! Les talked his way out of at least one speeding ticket by inviting the policeman to look at the spotless turbo car engine. He could be called upon to fix auto issues anytime.

Les also loved to ski. He joined a ski club in Illinois and fully realized his passion once he moved to Colorado. He and his buddies went on weekly ski trips to various slopes in Colorado. He skied well into his 80s.

Les was extremely proud of being a WW2 vet. He loved being on the Honor flight tour to DC with several friends. He toured the National Museum of the Pacific war last year and wore his WW2 Veteran hat frequently.

Les was a dedicated volunteer throughout his life. He mentored school children: read to the young ones, helped the older ones with math and social issues. His was actively involved in his church, Community Church of the Rockies. He made multiple trips with church group to La Puente in Alamosa. He helped design and build the parts of the woman’s shelter. He was active in the Lion’s Club for over 20 years. Held positions of President and treasurer. He helped run the concession stand at the Estes fair grounds for many years. Les designed part of the new addition at the Salud clinic and spent countless hours assisting with the build. He won multiple service awards, among them Estes Park 2010 Volunteer of the Year.

Les thrived in the company of others and enjoyed folks of all ages. He met weekly with the Aviation club, Car Club and Knights of the Belt Buckle. He enjoyed meeting his friends for a beer at Ed’s Cantina as well as other local spots. Les had a litany of jokes that he loved to tell at every encounter.

A celebration of life service will be held for Les on Saturday, August 17 at the American Legion. In lei of flowers, his family requests donations to Crossroads Ministry or La Puente Home (Alamosa, CO) in care of Allnutt Funeral Service 1302 Graves Ave. Estes Park, CO 80517.