Colonel James Clark Leslie, DDS

Colonel James Clark Leslie (Jim), D.D.S., 95, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2026, at his home, surrounded by family. Loving son of Clark and Edith, Jim was born in East Cleveland on February 2, 1931. A graduate of Shaw High School, he attended The Ohio State University for undergrad and earned his D.D.S. degree from Western Reserve University (now C.W.R.U.), where he would later serve as a clinical instructor.

Jim met the love of his life, Sue Erhard, on a blind date while stationed in Washington, D.C. as a U.S. Air Force dentist. They enjoyed nearly 60 years of marriage and had three children, Clark James Leslie, Mary Robins, and Susie Foster. His 30 years of service in the Air Force took the family around the world: from Aviano AFB in Italy to Southern Illinois; Caribou, ME; Homestead, FL; Madrid, Spain; and finally, Wright-Patterson AFB in his home state of Ohio, where he retired. His children will forever be grateful for the opportunities provided through his service, and they continue to explore the world.

Jim will be remembered for his selflessness, unquestionably willing to do anything for those he loved, and always first asking of others if they were okay. Not only would he offer to help, he would insist on it. His sacrifice was never more evident than when he tirelessly cared for his wife in her years-long battle against Parkinson’s, always by Sue’s side and tending to her until the end, often neglecting his own needs.

A perfectionist throughout life, he will also be remembered for living up to his high standards. Although it might take an hour to hang a picture, it was always straight and flawlessly positioned.

He enjoyed watching the fight scenes in Rocky movies, listening to banjo music, sipping a cold beer (“it tastes better in a glass”), and taking trips with his son, Clark. His hobbies included coin and stamp collecting and playing the violin, but his greatest joy was spending time with his three grandchildren, Leslie, Maxwell James, and Molly—playing 20 questions at brunch, taking Max for frozen custard after school, letting them win at checkers, not-so-secretly sneaking them money, or doing his best Mrs. Doubtfire voice.

Although he had a successful career as a dentist and Air Force Colonel, he was always proudest of his family. And his family will always be proudest of him.

Jim is survived by his children, Clark J. Leslie (Kelly), Mary L. Robins (Rocky), and Susan E. Foster (Trace) and grandchildren, Leslie, Max, and Molly Robins. Special thanks to Nancy Postle and her caring staff at Sympatico Healthcare Solutions, especially Lucy and Earnest, who treated Jim as their own family and provided almost as much care and love to Jim as his daughter, Mary, tirelessly did.

Private family services will be held at Lakeview Cemetery in Cleveland, where he will be laid to rest next to his beloved wife, Sue.

May he rest in peace and may his memory be a blessing for all who knew him.

Thank you for your service, Dad. Give Mom a big hug from us.

Cheers.