Leo Maurice Ouellette

Leo Maurice Ouellette was born in Lewiston, Maine on July 21, 1933. His parents were Arthur Ouellette and Marie Anna St. Pierre. He was the fifth of seven siblings: Willie, Aurore “Dolly,” Cecile, Jeanine, Normand and George Ouellette. They are a French-Canadian family. He was a beloved son, brother, godfather and uncle. He was active, much-loved and cherished in their lives.

At a young age, Leo attended an all boy catholic school, served as an altar boy, and was a newspaper delivery boy. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for eight years where he specialized in communications. From February 1956 to January 1958, he served at NATO Headquarters on the Sixth Allied Tactical Air Force in Izmir, Turkey. While stationed in Turkey, he disc jockeyed for the American Forces Radio Television Service (AFRTS). Following his service in the USAF, he joined Rockwell International and was promoted to a managerial position which he held for most of his 30 years. He joined Toastmasters in 1984. He was a champion bowler and enjoyed watching boxing matches. In 1990 they retired in Anza, CA, where he became President of the International Association of the Anza Lions Club from 1990 to 1999. He held numerous positions as President, Chairman, Historian, and Director of various committees.

During his employment at Rockwell, he was a bachelor at 46 years when he met and married his first wife, Connie Cordova. They were married 27 years. Connie had seven children, and Leo became more than a stepfather. All the children lovingly refer to him as “Pops” or “Dad” and “Grandpa,” never stepfather. Many grandchildren and great-grandchildren have stories of their traditions, life events, holidays and cherished memories at Nana and Grandpa’s houses. They shared an active and fun social life with the friends they made. Connie passed away in April 2005. He was honored, adored, respected, and loved by all their children and extended family. He gave her and her children a wonderful, full and beautiful life during their marriage.

In 2006, he married his second wife, Esther. She has four adult children. He was married to Esther for nearly 15 years. This new chapter of life brought him even more sons and daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Together new traditions, more eventful and loving memories were made. They adored and respected him.

Leo and Esther joined the American Legion, Post 132, in Orange, CA, following their marriage. They were committed members of the Post. They enjoyed a rewarding social life with Veterans, members, and friends that support the Veterans.

He served as Chaplain for eight years at the Post and served on the Executive Board Committee. He and Esther also served as the Editors of the Post 132 newsletter “The Bugle” for 12 years. Together, they were also members of the AVU (American Veterans United) and UMAVA (United Mexican American Veterans Association). During Leo’s duration and dedication to Post 132, and with the assistance of additional members, he created the “Military Conflict Museum,” which displays items from the different conflicts starting with the Civil War, WWI, WWII, Korea, and current conflicts. As Curator, the Museum was named after him.

Everyone is encouraged to visit the Leo Ouellette Military Museum located at the American Legion Post 132, 143 S Lemon St, Orange, CA and see the legacy he left everyone to enjoy.

Everyone that met and had the opportunity to know Leo respected him and have nothing but kind and wonderful words to describe him. He was known for his wisdom and would often take time to give sound counsel to any that asked of him. He mentored many young men and was noted for his generosity. He was witty and humble, and his smile was genuine and kind. He is and will forever be missed by all. May he rest well in peace.