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2019
Her parting words – “It was perfect” – reflected her entire life. The family she raised. The friends she made. The careers she chose. And, most recently, the joy she experienced in her final role as a teacher, yearbook adviser and dance team coach.
If you have and memories or details, regarding Leslie, please post a comment below.
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Debbie Dyke (Butcher)
Since the first day of 10th grade in Spanish class we have been close friends. We went to LBCC together, were in each other's weddings, hosted showers for weddings and births for each other. Leslie stood by my side during the very difficult birth of my grandson Esau. She has been such a wonderful wife to her husband, Michael. She was a devoted Mom to her daughters. She devoted herself to her Mom and Aunts care when they were aging. Her students are lavishing praise to her on her facebook page about what a major influence she was in their lives. What teacher could ask for more? In her career she was a journalist at OC Register, speech writer for the Floure Corp executives, high school teacher who also coached cheer, dance and headed up the yearbook staff. She was teaching up until 2 weeks ago. I just heard the news yesterday and I am reeling. I cannot believe I won't be able to talk with her, laugh with her or share important news with her again. I will miss her so much. Love you Leslie
Saturday, June 29th, I attended Leslie's Celebration of Life in Lafayette, CA. My daughter Sarah attended with me. The outpouring of love for Leslie was amazing. Over 75 of her current and former students attended and spoke of what an influential teacher and friend she was to them during their high school years. Journalist friends from OC Register came from Maryland, San Diego and even as far as Hong Kong to be there to remember her and her smile and great spirit. I brought lots of pictures of our times together since we were 16, including pictures of her in her Millie the Ewe costume. Her students got a big kick out of that and her husband and daughters had never seen those pictures. Leslie would have loved the celebration and as I look forward to our 50th reunion I cannot believe she won't be there with me.
Howard Higgins
Leslie was a lovely person.
I was not close to her, but I remember always hearing nice things about her, especially from the teachers.
Rest in Peace Leslie.
Mary Fuller
I have many fond memories from time spent with Leslie at Millikan and beyond. She was a pleasure to be with and had a great sense of humor. Debbie’s heartfelt tribute above really says it all. I so enjoyed being with Leslie at our 40th reunion. An interesting fact about Leslie while at Millikan is that during her senior year she was Millie the Ewe.
Joyce Patti (Seymour)
Karen Keech (Swerling)
I also hung out with Leslie and had many goofy adventures with her! Howard Higgins, remember when I said that I was more interested in boys than school? Well I found a compadre in Leslie! She had a secret crush whom she named “Mystery Man.” Leslie and I would meet up and report on our MM sightings! And then sneak around to catch a glimpse of MM! So much fun! It wasn’t anything serious, just two high school girls being high school girls. Thank you, Leslie!!
Btw, my lips are sealed. I will never divulge the identity of MM. it would ruin the fun.
Howard Higgins
I wouldn't expect anything less.
Susan Gittleman
Leslie was a truly special person - sweet, funny, smart and loyal !
Thank you, Leslie for being my friend during those years ! You made High School fun!
RIP,