Leslie Lewis "Les" Bloedel

LESLIE LEWIS “LES” BLOEDEL was born on November 25, 1940 in Jamestown, North Dakota to Delbert and Kathleen (Lewis) Bloedel. Les passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at his home on Monday, April 18, 2022 in Washington Court House, Ohio.

Les spent his younger years on the west coast graduating in 1958 from Clackamas High School in Clackamas, Oregon. After graduation Les attended Portland State Community College, joined the workforce and most importantly, met and married the love of his life, Karen Carboneau. Together they moved to California where he served in the Air Force National Guard and worked numerous part-time jobs in order to continue his education and to support his family. In 1968 he graduated from California State Polytechnic University in San Luis Obispo, California with a degree in industrial engineering. Engineering suited Les for he loved to learn and was a natural problem solver. His love for learning never wavered and he frequently said, “Who is going to be my teacher today?” He believed everyone had a story to tell and was inspired to gain wisdom and knowledge from those around him.

Les was once an avid photographer and was happiest behind the camera. You could catch him at a Friday night basketball game, band concert, or just about any event that his grandchildren participated in. Aside from his grandchildren’s events, using his instinctively sharp eye to spot striking images and with an ever-present camera, Les captured many beautiful images throughout his travels (many of which are displayed in his home).

After retiring as Vice President of Weastec Corporation in Hillsboro, Ohio, Les continued to work and serve others. He took pride in every task- no matter how large or small. From mowing the neighbors’ lawns, to volunteering at the local food pantry, to his most recent project, driving pharmaceuticals to various medical facilities, Les did it all with a positive attitude. When not tending to his numerous jobs, Les loved learning about the latest technology. At 81 years young, he was one of the most tech savvy people around. He was also a voracious reader who loved to expand his mind with the writings of the great scholars and philosophers, and a committed member of The First Presbyterian Church. At 6 feet 5 inches, Les’ faith stood taller than him alone. A devoted, Christian man who served his church family as treasure, deacon, and elder. Les cherished his church family just as he cherished life itself. He will be greatly missed by those who loved him.

Les was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, John Perry, Lynne Kline, and Kathie Christian; and brothers-in-law, Bud Christian, Bill Guest and Tim Rife. Survivors include his loving wife, Karen Lee (Carboneau) Bloedel, whom he married on July 9, 1961; his children,  Dianna (Eric) Wayne, Dave (Jill) Bloedel and Toi Oyer (Chris); grandchildren, Alec Wayne, Madalyn Wayne, Olivia Wayne, Luke Bloedel, Jocelyn Bloedel and Chance Oyer; and siblings, Peggy Guest, Jeanne (Pete) Rife, and Jeff Perry; and brother-in-law, David (Joan) Carboneau; and his forever faithful canine companion, Tucker. Also surviving are several very special nieces and nephews and a host of special friends.

All are invited to A Celebration of Life Service to be held on Friday, April 29, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 214 N. Hinde St., Washington Court House, Ohio. Family and friends may visit at the church from 3:30 p.m. until the time of service. The family welcomes donations to The First Presbyterian Church or the Fayette County Food Pantry as an expression of sympathy in lieu of flowers.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Summers Funeral Home. Online condolences may be sent to www.summersfuneralhome.com

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