January 11, 1926 - July 8, 2023
Loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and great great grandfather. Leo passed away peacefully at his home on July 8, 2023. He was married to his wife, Betty, for 68 years until her passing 8 years ago. Leo cared for her in the last years of her life. His family and friends admired his selfless attention and devotion to Betty.
Leo was born in Mankato, Kansas. He attended Mankato High School before joining the Navy serving until the end of WWII. While in the Navy, he visited a cousin in Auburn, California and fell in love with the area. His dream was to return home, marry his high school sweetheart and move to California.
He married Betty in Mankato in 1947. After the birth of their first son, Steve, they worked their way across the country, having a son Tim in Idaho and arriving in the Auburn area around 1950. Both Leo and Betty's family soon followed.
Leo and Betty joined the First Baptist Church in Auburn where he became a member, usher and eventually a church elder. Both were involved in supporting the Choir and Youth Programs. In 1951, they moved to Meadow Vista, CA, where they spent the rest of their lives. Leo was known as a strong man and a hard worker with a kind heart willing to help anyone that needed help. He was a jack of trades, to include Farmer, Feed Store Worker, Chicken Ranch Owner, Gas Station Owner, Auto/Truck Mechanic, Construction Worker, Truck Owner and Driver, and finally a surveyor when he retired in his 80s.
During their twilight years, Leo and Betty traveled the country visiting family and national parks. Leo was a devoted family man. His happiest memories were with his wife and when he was surrounded by family.
His parents were John William Howell (Bill) and Dora Howell. Preceded in death by wife Betty, brothers Ray of Loveland, CO, Dale of Stagecoach, NV, Marvin of San Diego, CA, Eugene of Mankato, KS, and Granddaughter Michelle of Glendora, CA.
Leo is survived by his brother Earl and wife Betty. Sons, Steven and wife Suzi, Tim, Christopher and daughter Catherine. Grandchildren, Steve, Philip, Alysha, Janelle, Zack, Katelyn, Brandon, Amy, and Dylan as well as 13 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren.
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