Leon Israel of Seattle and Whidbey Island passed away on February 20, 2011. Son of Morris & Gentil Israel of Rhodes & Istanbul, Leon was born and raised in the Seattle central area within the Sephardic community. He graduated Garfield/Broadway High School and joined the US Army in 1944 during WW II. As a soldier in the famed 86th Blackhawk Division, Leon marched through Europe and after VE Day was then deployed to the war in Pacific serving in the Philippines. He often said, “If it wasn’t for WW II, I never would have left Seattle King County.” A proud and humble American Vet, Leon was an active member of the American Legion for over 50 years.
Following in the trade of his father and many uncles, Leon operated his own shoe repair business: Magnolia Shoe Repair and Leon’s on Whidbey for 50 years. He was renowned citywide as a master craftsman and appreciated for his robust personality and sense of humor. Leon’s passion in life was fishing. He was most happy on the water with a rod and reel in his hand and a fish on the line. His love of Puget Sound and the Pacific Northwest led him to Whidbey Island where he lived simply and joyfully for most of his 85 years. He was a fan of “Big Band” music, and his favorite was “I Did It My Way” and in fact, he lived his life accordingly.
Leon’s children, Morry Israel, Gail Israel-Weinstein and Marty Weinstein, Lori Israel and Bill Lennon, wish to thank the medical professionals at Virginia Mason Hospital, the VA Hospital, Whidbey General and the wonderful Whidbey EMT providers and Leon’s many friends throughout the area who supported him through his later life with dignity, honor and always that special sense of humor.
Memorial donations may be made to local animal shelters.
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