Leo Hess

Leo Hess, 65, of Mansfield, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 30, 2016 at Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center following an extended illness. He was born on December 10, 1950 in Mansfield to the late Joseph and Josephine (Mann) Hess.

Most anyone would remember Leo as a caring gentleman who didn't mind getting a little crazy every now and again. He was dedicated and had a gregarious nature to him. Leo had a big heart for all kids and a generosity that knew no bounds when it came to supporting local organizations, youth and community. Leo grew up in the Shiloh and Plymouth areas, graduating from Plymouth High School. He attended The Ohio State University Branch Campus in Mansfield as well, prior to beginning his decorated career with the State of Ohio and MANCI as a corrections officer. He was the honored recipient of the State of Ohio Officer of the Year Award in 2007 for his bravery and generosity throughout the year. Leo retired from MANCI and the United States Army, as well as from the Teamsters Union. He proudly served our country during Desert Storm with the United States Army. Leo was a lifetime member, and past commander of the AMVETS Post #26, VFW Post #7651 lifetime member, and lifetime member of DAV. He enjoyed owning Corvettes, traveling with his family, and watching sports. He cheered on his favorite NASCAR driver, Jeff Gordon and enjoyed watching the Cleveland Indians play. Most of all Leo loved quality time spent with his family. Even his twelve year illness could not dampen his spirit for his family and fun and laughter.

Leo is survived by his loving wife, Teresa Pifher-Hess of Mansfield; his sons, David (Nicole Chrapko) Pifher of Brunswick, Georgia and Leo (Jamie) Hess. of Ontario; a daughter, Tanya (Harold) Seaman of Lawrenceville, Georgia; his six grandchildren, Justin Chance, Leo Hess III, Braylon Hess, Simon Perez, Colson Pifher, and Jaxon Pifher; three brothers and a sister in law, Robert Hess, Earl Hess and Larry (Barb) Caudill, all of Mansfield; one sister, Betty Hess of Mansfield; sister-in-law, Roberta Hess; very good friends, James "Toky" Caldwell, Connell Delk, and Bill Bethea,; one aunt, Ora Lou Mann of Brownsville, TN and a host of very dear nieces and nephews and other relatives.

In addition to his parents, Leo was preceded in death by his three brothers, John, James, and Michael Hess; one sister, Linda Hess; his grandparents, Robert and Augusta Mann and Henry and Pearl (Cobb) Hess; a special aunt, Bernice Taylor; and a special friend, Ron Givens.

Friends and family may visit at the Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 100 South Lexington-Springmill Road, on Thursday, October 6, 2016 from 2:00-4:00 pm and 6:00-8:00 pm. A funeral service held in Leo's honor will be on Friday, October 7, 2016 at 11:00 am, at the funeral home, officiated by Terrance Stanford. Burial will follow at Mansfield Cemetery where full military honors will be observed by the Richland County Joint Veterans Burial Squad. Following the graveside services a wake in Leo's Honor will be held at the AMVETS Post #26, 1100 W. 4th Street in Ontario.