Leo A Schamblin Jr.

Leo A. Schamblin Jr. February 20, 1939 - April 10, 2010 Leo Schamblin was born on February 20, 1939 and was unexpectedly called to meet his Father on the 10th of April 2010 at his home in Bakersfield, California. Leo was born to Marian and Leo Schamblin Sr. in Bakersfield where he attended Garces High school and Bakersfield College. He transferred to University of Oregon where he was the first person in his family to obtain a degree. He served his country in the Army as military intelligence from 1962-1964. He returned home to run the family business with his father who preceded him in passing. He successfully ran Pioneer Mercantile, a Bakersfield icon founded by his grandfather in 1898, until the day of his passing. He was an avid tennis player, at one time serving as president of Bakersfield Raquet Club, as well as a classic automobile and motorcycle enthusiast. For those who had the pleasure of knowing him, they know that his accomplishments are far outweighed by his devotion as a son, a husband, a father and a grandfather. His kindness, patience and willingness to help anyone in need define the great man he was. Simple words cannot illustrate the loss sustained with his passing or the grievance felt by those who loved him. He is survived in life by his mother, Marian Schamblin the family matriarch; his loving wife of 43 years Jeanne Schamblin; his sister, Kay and her husband Don from Kingsburg; his son, Dr. Mark Schamblin; his three loving grandchildren, Connor, Kathea and Ryker Schamblin; daughter, Jill and her husband Jeff Petrini; niece and nephew, Wendy and Lance Taylor from Hendersonville, Tennessee along with their 4 children, Bailey, McKenna, Sawyer and Reese; his cousin, Karen and Tom Owens from Torrance; his daughter-in-law Dana Schamblin; sister-in-law, Vanis Phillips and husband Glen; and brother-in-law, Terry Helman and wife Ruth from Sidney, Ohio; along with many friends and associates from the community who loved him dearly. Visitation will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Chapel Wednesday, April 14th, from 5-8 p.m., with graveside services on Thursday, April 15th, at 9:30 a.m., promptly followed by a memorial at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church 1705 17th Street. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) at 2400 24th Street, Bakersfield, California 93301.