George Allan Leja

George is survived by his two sons, Douglas Leja (Jan) and Stephen Leja (Cindy), both of Yucaipa and his two brothers Robert Leja of San Diego, and Patrick Leja of Coachella. Grandchildren, David Leja, Jennifer Leja Campbell, and Trevor Leja, and four great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his his wife Barbara Ainsley Leja, his daughter Robin Ainsley Leja, his Parents John Donald Leja and Bernice Solarczyk Leja.

George was born on 18 August 1926 in Holtville, California to John and Bernice Leja, who had immigrated from Poland. He and his ten brothers and sisters worked the family farm in Imperial Valley. George was an all-around athlete at Holtville High School and graduated in 1944. To help the war effort, he enlisted in the United States Army.

George was Infantryman in WWII and saw combat in the Pacific Theater on the Philippine Island of Leyte. He distinguished himself as a superior soldier by clearing enemy tunnels and rousting out unwilling Japanese fighters from their caves.

Upon return from the war, George played football at Harden Simmons University in Abilene, Texas. He was the star fullback for the Cowboys in the 1948 Harbor Bowl where they beat San Diego State College, 53 to 0. He was so dominant in that game that the opposing football coach immediately recruited George to play for SDSC (later SDSU). He was fullback for the 1950 team that won the California State Championship! George and his teammates were recently honored by the University.

George met Barbara Parrish while a student at San Diego State College, and they married in January 1952. He graduated SDSC with a major in Business Administration and a minor in Recreation. George took his first job in Needles, California as Director of Recreation, and they welcomed their first child Stephen in July 1954.

Later that year, the Leja's moved to Yucaipa, California. George became Director of Parks and Recreation, and Barbara began a teaching career. Their second son Douglas was born in April 1956, and daughter Robin followed in June 1957. The Leja children remember their father as a kind and gentle motivator who encouraged them to pursue their goals. All three children graduated from Yucaipa High School, and graduated from college.

George was a man of vision, wisdom, and courage. He is known for dedication to his fellow man, and contributing a legacy of service to his community. His fore-sight and personal labor were central in the creation and development of numerous Parks and Community Centers in the Valley. If you ever played little league or softball on an early Yucaipa ball field, swam at the Yucaipa Plunge, watched baseball at our High School Varsity Field, had a picnic at Flag Hill, rode horse at the local Equestrian Arena, spent a leisurely afternoon at one of the many Yucaipa parks, played shuffleboard at 7th Street, or went fishing at Yucaipa Regional Park, George Leja has touched your life.

George held many hats over the years. Park Director, Little League Founder, Scout Leader, Coach, Optimist President, Optimist Lt. Governor, Freemason, Football Referee, Basketball Official, Baseball Umpire, and numerous other titles, including Team Captain, MVP, Softball Pitcher, and Lifeguard!

George was also known for his talent with a Harmonica. He played the Military Medley for numerous community Veterans Day and Memorial Day celebrations. He also played the medley for our Valley's 9/11 Memorial held at Yucaipa High Stadium, and numerous other no-notice venues as he often carried his harmonica with him.

Services are scheduled for 11 AM on 17 February 2018 at Yucaipa Methodist Church, 35177 Beech Ave, with a reception to follow in the Fellowship Hall. Pastor Don Hinkle will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate George's life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Gary Sinise Foundation in memory of WWII Vet George Leja at https://www.garysinisefoundation.org. The family would like to thank the Veterans Administration for the resources and care they provided for our father.