Leo F. Alvarado passed away on Saturday, January 13, 2018 at the age of 89. He was born in Oakdale, California to Juanita and Gilbert Alvarado on August 7, 1928. He was the ninth of 10 children.
After high school he served in the United States Army serving in Hawaii. He was later transferred to a classified unit to train bomber pilots the necessary mental tenacity and calm for potential bombing of Japan. On his exit he held numerous positions including one with the sales of training manuals for McGraw Hill.
He eventually returned to the family ranch in Oakdale he had grown up on. He increased the size of the ranch by purchasing neighboring land. In 2015, he sold the family ranch and its adjacent properties, which are now in use as almond orchards.
Lee was a simple and honest man. He truly believed a handshake was the best means of an agreement. He never broke his word, never failed to perform what was set upon him, and never overlooked a responsibility.
The soul of one humble man can touch the lives of so many in such a myriad of ways. We will all miss you Lee.
Lee is survived by his sole remaining sister, Jane T. Watson; her children and spouses Michael and Diane Watson; Marianne and Jim Richards; and Michele Orlando. Jane’s remaining daughter Lisa Coyle pre-deceased him in 2009. An additional 23 nieces and nephews and many grand (and great-grand) nieces and nephews.
Remembrances may be made to the Nazareth House of Fresno, CA. We wish to thank and acknowledge the dedicated team of caregivers for the loving, supportive and tireless care provided to Leo during his final months.
Services will be held at Nazareth House, 2121 N. First Ave., Fresno, on February 2, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. A delayed private burial to follow at the family site in Oakdale, CA.
The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader
Jan. 31, 2018