Leroy H Strong

“Sonny” “Chimista”

LeRoy passed away peacefully at Wapato, surrounded by family. LeRoy was born October 7, 1933 to Simon Strong Sr. and Caroline Strong. Old Man Watson Homer was so honored by LeRoy being his namesake; he gave LeRoy his Indian name “Chimista”. LeRoy’s nick name was Sonny which his family and friends called him. He was proud to be Yakama-Grand Ronde-Nez Perce.

He played baseball and basketball for Wapato Schools, graduating from Wapato High School, and Yakima Valley Community College. In 1950 LeRoy was named American Legion Inspirational baseball player (pitcher & infielder) and received a beautiful trophy. He was coached by his favorite/best coaches William Faller, Bobo Brayton, and by his father, Simon. He continued to play for local basketball teams, and Yakama Nation baseball team which traveled to and won Indian baseball tournaments, played in the always tough NW baseball league - from Wapato to Walla Walla, and LaGrande, Oregon. He played with his four brothers: Simon, Ray, Buzz (the Strong boys), and Rudolph Valde. He was basketball manager for the Wapato Indians basketball team. LeRoy also coached Wapato lil league baseball teams which his brother Buzz played on – their teams went undefeated. Worked for the BIA Education and Tribal CAP Program.

LeRoy enjoyed traveling throughout the Pacific NW, renewing friendships with baseball and basketball teams. Special friends were: Rod Cowapoo Sr., Sully Charley, Stanley Smartlowit Sr., Wilbur Family, Jones Family, Youckton Family.

He enjoyed going to all sporting events, watching sports on TV, and reading. So proud of his grandchildren and their accomplishments. Spending time with his nieces and nephews, and their families. Just enjoyed visiting and sharing a laugh with family and friends.

He is survived by daughter, Sandra Lee Strong & Family – Toppenish; grandson Michael Strong & Family – Wapato; brother Ray Strong - Grays Harbor; sister Laura Strong – Wapato. Nephews/Nieces: Brian & Carmen Strong & Family; Simon Curtis Strong; Coco Chanelle & James Jahr & Family; Katherine Strong; Rhonda Strong & Family; Rejina Strong & Family. Best friends: Don Zack, Ray Olney, Raya Family. Adopted Uncle Joe Facio. Favorite cousins & their families.

Preceded by his son John A. Strong; his parents Simon & Caroline Strong; brothers Simon Strong Jr. and Anthony Buzz Strong, Rudolph Valde; Sister Levine E. Strong. Grandparents Jasper and Attomany Strong, and Rueben Johnley; Macasca and Annie Sitton, and Wilson Bobb Sr. All his favorite uncles and aunts; cousins/family and friends; fellow teammates.

A Dressing Service will be held on Friday, February 21, 2014 starting at 3:00 p.m. at Merritt Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday at 9:00 a.m. at St. Peter Claver Catholic Church. Interment will immediately follow at the McCoy Cemetery.

Merritt Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements.