Death date: Apr 15, 2005
Born July 1, 1916 in Bridgeport, IL, passed away on the 15th of April, 2005. A longtime resident of Lakewood, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jim. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Mary Jo, sons: Bill (Judi), Read Obituary
I recall summer's spent with my grandparents on the farm, and I recall how fond my grandmother (Louise Gallon) was of her brother. I would say thank you Great Uncle Leland for teaching my Dad to fly fish! Many wonderful memories and our condolences to the family##imported-begin##Perry and Maureen Gallon##imported-end##
Although I do not believe we served in the 8oth at the same time, I do recall the name. I was in the 80th from May 44 to Aug 45. My condolences to his family.---From a fellow Headhunter##imported-begin##Clarence Wolgemuth##imported-end##
On behalf of the entire 80th Fighter Squadron Headhunters Association, Bonnie & I would like to pass on our sincere condolences to your entire family on your loss. May Leland forever soar with the Eagles in Peace.##imported-begin##Col Jay E.##imported-end##
I first met Leland and Mary Jo many years ago, and was immediately swept up into their lives, as if I was a long-lost country cousin. Leland was full of stories and laughter, and then more stories. Mary Jo had more energy than a woman of a "certain age" should have, and she was just about the most gracious and kind person you could meet.
It has been a joy to watch as Leland aged, not with regret but with elan, just like he flew his beloved airplanes. I saw him just a few days before his death, and even though it was clear that we were approaching the end of his runway, he was still full of laughter and stories, and fully ready for his final takeoff.
I will miss Leland, and I grieve with Mary Jo and his children, but I am sure that he is having as much fun as ever, and still telling his stories, but now with a new one to add to his repertoire.##imported-begin##Ron Cronk##imported-end##
Barb and I have been saddened by the passing of Uncle Leland. He touched our lives as an uncle and a friend. We have so many wonderful memories because he was so special to us. He always had a twinkle in his eyes and a big smile. We loved to hear him laugh and the great stories he told. I especially remember going fishing with him and his teaching me to tie flies and going hunting. Barb will never forget meeting Uncle Leland for the first time...he was wearing his Air Force blues. She also remembers his cooking skills (potato pancakes one morning) and his love of gardening.
We will forever remember him fondly and have thought of this poem many times this week written by pilot officer, John G. Magee, Jr., in 1941 and later sent to his parents. It is entitled: "High Flight"
Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of earth and danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings; Sunward I've climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth of sun-split clouds-and done a hundred things you have not dreamed of-wheeled and soared and swung high in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring there, I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung my eager craft through footless halls of air. Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue I've topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace where never lark, or even eagle flew - and, while with silent lifting mind I've trod the high untrespassed sanctity of space, put out my hand and touched the face of God.
The angles won't have to teach Uncle Leland how to use his wings! With all our love to Aunt Jo and our precious family....Always, Jim and Barb##imported-begin##Jim and Barbara Gallon##imported-end##
Dear Ladd, Linda, Jason, Morgan & Rayann...
We are saddened to hear of the passing of Ladd's Father, Leland. I enjoyed hearing Ladd reminisce about his Father and envy all your memoirs over the years. Leland had an interesting life and was very close to his family.
Thinking of you tomorrow as always...sending Love, Jimmy & Ellen##imported-begin##Jimmy & Ellen Fox##imported-end##
NULL##imported-begin##Mr. & Mrs. Frank Trinkel##imported-end##
Ladd, Linda, Jason, Morgan, Jo and your families.
This is such a hard time for all of you. We always enjoyed Leland and his everlasting smile and great stoies. Cherish your memories.
We cherish your friendship.
Patti and Larry Warwick##imported-begin##Patti and Larry Warwick##imported-end##
May God Bless all of you in your time of mourning.##imported-begin##Markus C. Warwick##imported-end##
Our prayers are with you. ~Marlo & Jason.##imported-begin##Marlo Warwick & Jason Hirl##imported-end##
