John, 
Sail on Sailor...I will have a breakfast dedicated to you at Moe's.

I was lucky to spend many months living with Kathy and John during my teen years. John was the source of many fun memories in both Port Orchard and later Hawaii. I am also glad to have had an opportunity to catch up with John the last couple of years. I am sorry that we didn't get to play that last golf game together.  I guess it will have to wait for a bit now. I hear Heaven has a couple of great courses.  Rest in peace dear brother in law. We have our memories, but we will miss you greatly.

It's very hard to put into words what John has meant to all of us here on the DCAPES Project.  He could have retired some time ago but he truely enjoyed coming into work and helping to make a difference in the world. We miss him so much.  Much love to you all in this time of grief.

John was a wonderful person in addition to being a great Boss, friend,co-worker, mentor, protector and teacher. I used to lovingly refer to him as  "Papa Smurf". Even through his gruff exterior, John was a loving soul who thought the world of his family. He fought hard in whatever he tackled and always perservered. Now his fight is over and he is in a far better place. We all will miss him, but know that he will always be with us in spirit to talk to and guide us. John was a unique individual. I know all too well the feelings you all are going through, but know that it will become easier as time goes on and you think more of the good memories. I know John is now chilling out with a Mia Tia in his hand and smiling down on all of us. I shall always treasure and honor John's memory. Be at peace "Papa Smurf" until we meet again.

John was a great frend and DCAPES co-worker. He fought hard no matter what he tried to accomplish. John will be greatly missed, but now he is not suffering or in pain anymore. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

John's life was certainly extraordinary.  He touched many lives for the better, and certainly none was worse for the wear.  John was unique.  I hope that the pain that his family and friends are experiencing will be replaced by good memories of him.  May we all be consoled for his loss.

John was a wonderful friend and co-worker that we in the Air Force lovingly called "Popeye".  You will be missed by all that knew you.  Good sailing and God speed.

To the Leslie Family, 
                  In your time of sorrow, know that John is in a better place watching over each and every one of you. And remember pain endures but for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. God Bless!!!!

In honor and loving remembrance of John ~

"San aimsir bhrónach 
In the time of sorrow...

Go bhfeice tú solas Dé ar an mbealach romhat 
May you see God's light on the path ahead

Nuair is dorcha é an bóthar a shiúlann tú 
When the road you walk is dark

Go gcluine tú i gcónaí 
May you always hear

Fiú san uairdo bhróin 
Even in your hour of sorrow

Amhránaíocht chaoin na háilte 
The gentle singing of the lark.

Nuair a bhíonn na haimsire crua 
When times are hard

Nár dhéana an chruacht cloch de do chroí choíche 
May hardness never turn your heart to stone

Go mbeadh cuimhne agat i gcónaí 
May you always remember

Nuair a thiteann na scáthanna 
When the shadows fall

Ní shiúlann tú i d'aonar 
You do not walk alone". ~ an Irish blessing

OBITUARY

John E. Leslie

23 April, 1940 – 14 June, 2012

Demaine Funeral Home

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services