Leo John LeClair, age 81, died on March 10, 2017, of complications due to diabetes and dementia, in Manitowoc, Wisconsin.

Leo is survived by his wife, Judy (Larson) of 45 years. Leo and Judy raised five children and enjoyed fourteen grandchildren. He built their home in Cato where he developed a pond stocked with perch and blue gill, where he spent time fishing and where the kids spent their summers swimming and winters ice skating. He also raised chickens, geese and ducks, enjoyed restoring classic automobiles, designed and assembled hand-crafted wooden furniture, and entertained many friends while baking his "famous" homemade pizza.

Leo was born on October 24, 1935, in Manitowoc, the only son of the late Leonard and Lillian. Leo was raised on a small farm where they raised beagles, livestock, and harvested crops. He graduated from Lincoln High School and studied engineering in Chicago. Leo served in the United States Army as a medic in the 1960s. Upon his return home, he traveled extensively for the Manitowoc Company as a mechanic. He then joined Joe Kaufmann in the classic car restoration business, where they restored many autos from around the United States, including Duesenbergs for Clark Gable, Gary Cooper, and Greta Garbo. Leo and Judy were active members in the Horseless Carriage Club of America. He was later employed with Foster Needle Company as a Tool and Dye Machinist, from where he retired.

Leo's family and friends will always remember him as a tireless worker, a kind and generous friend, and creative person who was able to fix just about anything.

At Leo's request, a private family memorial service will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes for donations to be made in Leo's name to the Manitowoc Health and Rehab Center [2021 S Alverno Rd, Manitowoc, WI 54220], where Leo received excellent and loving nursing care for the last 3 years of his life.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family by visiting www.pfefferfuneralhome.com.

The Pfeffer Funeral Home and All-Care Cremation Center, Manitowoc, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.

Published by Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter on Mar. 13, 2017.