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Robert Lealos Obituary

ROBERT LEALOS
May 30, 1947 ~ May 1, 2013

Robert Lealos passed away May 1, 2013 at the Portland VA Medical Center. Known affectionately by his wife and close friends as "BL", he was genuinely loved and respected by family and friends. Throughout his life, he was a comfort and support to many, trying to provide the help he could and remaining a constant in many peoples' lives by just being there.
Born May 30, 1947, he attended school at Providence Academy and Our Lady of Lourdes and graduated from Fort Vancouver High School with the Class of 1965. He lived his entire life in Vancouver, with the only exception being his time in the military where he served in the U.S. Marine Corps and while away at college at the University of Washington where he graduated with a Masters Degree in Psychology, Education, and Counseling in 1975.
He loved his family and his home, but we shared him with his passion for the game of golf. Although not destined to be one of golf's greats, he thoroughly enjoyed being outdoors for some exercise, time with friends, and a chance to meet new people. He enjoyed travel and he had the opportunity to take several trips since he retired from the Department of Corrections in 2004. He tolerated camping, but was a bit of a "city kid" who camped, likely for the "quality time" it gave us all to talk about old times and for him to tell stories we had heard a hundred times before.
He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Donna (Monfort) Lealos, his children Chris Lealos and Meagan Boyce, his nephew Ben Thames, and his beautiful grandbabies who were the lights of his life.
He was a bit old fashioned, still living the values of loyalty, trust, decency, and honor. A loving family man, wonderful provider, and faithful best friend, we will miss his warm heart and generosity. May he rest in peace until we meet again.
A very patriotic man proud of his service to our country, it seems fitting he be laid to rest with military honors at Willamette National Cemetery. Services will be held May 20, 2013 at 1:30 p.m.
A remembrance Gathering will follow at the American Legion Post 14 in Vancouver.
Please sign his guest book at: www.columbian.com/obits.

Published by The Columbian on May 16, 2013.
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Memories and Condolences
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Even when he was in high school, it was obvious that he had character, so I'm not surprised that he was the loyal, old fashioned type of man...the best kind. I remember even his male friends from school were teary eyed at later class reunions, because they could still 'feel' his presence. From experience, I know we never "get over" losing someone we love with our entire being, but I have all the faith in the world that we will all be reunited in paradise, as God originally planned the earth to be. May you be blessed with peace and the love of each other, dear family, through these difficult days. All my love to you.....

Lynne Townsend Novotny

Classmate

May 10, 2021

I worked with Bob from 97 to 04. He was a great leader and a great friend. It was always good to see him at the poker parties after he retired. He was such a happy guy. Donna, you are in my thoughts. It's hard losing your spouse.

Kathy Neunann

May 26, 2013

I knew Bob because I was friends with his son Chris. Bob was awesome and I'm sorry I haven't seen him in about a decade. He did believe in hardwork, honesty, and loyalty and he instilled that on his kids. He was also hilarious... except when he got mad then he was flat-out intimidating. Regardless, him and the Lealoses always treated me like family and it spoke volumes about BL's character. Thanks for all the laughs BL and condolences to Donna, Chris, Megan and Ben.

Patrick (Ricky) McDaniel

May 25, 2013

I worked with Bob at Larch Corrections Center for over 10 years. During that time I came to appreciate the many strengths Bob brought to the workplace. He was a wise advisor and a great supporter of staff. In my opinion Bob left a void that still remains. Bob will be missed but not forgotten. God's comfort and peace to his family and friends.

Bill Cardin

May 24, 2013

I have good memories of eating lunch with Bob and some of the counselors when I would visit Larch Corrections Center from the Vancouver parole office to interview inmates. Bob was always friendly and helpful. He was a common sense guy with a good sense of humor. He was a real asset to DOC. We also both served in the Marines and shared stories. Bob leaves a great legacy of helping people and serving his county and community. My deepest sympathies to the family.

Stuart Kilby

May 21, 2013

Bob and I were friends in high school. He was a kind and decent man with a deep compassion for others. I too served in the Marines and so Bob, I say well done and Semper Fi.
Thank you for your friendship.
Charles Leidy

May 20, 2013

I am a 2nd cousin once removed of Roberts. I never meet him, but did meet Leonard and Carrie back in the late 80's.
I am related on the Halverson side. Gunder was my Grandmother Hillman's brother.
It is always sad to loose a loved one, but expecially so when a loved one is so young. My best to the family.
Jack Hillman

Jack Hillman

May 18, 2013

"Navy Wives Clubs of America #295 offers deepest sympathies to your family. If there is any way we can be of service, please call Beth at 360-254-0157"

Navy Wives Club Rosebuds #295

May 17, 2013

Dear Donna and family - I know the pain of lossing your spouse. My heart and prayers go out to you. I loved Bobby - he was a great cousin. When we were kids he always made me laugh.

Dawn Dawes (Mack)

May 17, 2013

Donna: Bob was one of the really good guys. His kindness and compassion in his dealings with everyone made him a standout. Though our interactions were few they were memorable. May your grief be tempered with the pride of being a partner in his life.

Larry Hansen

May 17, 2013

Dear Donna & Family, My prayers and thoughts are with you, but I feel confident you will be reunited again in paradise. I remember Bob as a "jock" in high school. I was just looking at '85 Fort reunion book and there are a couple cute photos of him laughing with his pals. It's obvious that he grew in many areas of his life and I can't imagine your pain at this time. May God support you and yours.

Lynne Townsend Novotny

May 16, 2013

My brother Dennis & I attended high school with Bob, what a great guy. Our deepest sympathy to his family & dear friends.
One person...one lifetime...So many beautiful memories. The world has lost someone very special... Our thoughts & prayers are with you at this difficult time but know we will all meet again.

Darla Warner

May 16, 2013

Donna - so sorry to hear of your husband's passing. I have such great memories of our time at BGHS and it seems like just yesterday we were there. May you find comfort in your memories of BL.

Julie Weisenborn Scott

May 16, 2013

Bob and Donna have been my neighbors since I moved in 21 years ago. Bob was always so friendly to me. I will miss seeing him enjoying the sun in the yard, riding his bike, and spending time with his family. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Carrie & Curtis Foster

May 16, 2013

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