Felmon "Leon" Dorough

1931 - 2010

Felmon "Leon" Dorough 1931 - 2010 Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, December 29, 2010 at 2:00 p.m., at Doughty- Calhoun-O'Meara Funeral Home, 1100 Truxtun Ave., Bakersfield, CA. Felmon "Leon" Dorough (known by his family as "Sunny") passed away on December 21, 2010 joining his mother, Louise; his father, Leon; and his sons, Derek and Richie. Surviving him is his loving wife, Barbara and dog, Skipper; brothers and sisters: Betty, Maryann, Patsy, Mike, Nancy; and nieces and nephews; sons: Doug, Jeff, Greg; and daughters, Angie and Dorrene; grandchildren: Julie, Mario, Kerrie, Zachary, Nicholas, Jeffery, Ryan, Jason, Dustin, Casey and Kristen; his great grandchildren: Dominic and Mia; and his many friends including Greg and Joni. Leon was born January 6, 1931 in Detroit, Michigan. Leon's family soon moved back to Alabama where his father worked as a local Barber and his mother operated a Dry Cleaning Business in the City of Columbiana. Leon was the oldest of six children and was the only child who followed his father's footsteps by serving in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War as an enlisted sailor. He served as a cook on a mine sweeper ship called the "U.S.S. Incredible." After the war, a friend stationed with him in San Diego, CA invited him to Tulare, CA on leave where Leon met his first wife. Leon later remarried with two stepchildren and moved back to his home town in Columbiana, Alabama. Leon's charismatic character was suited for the insurance business. He progressed to the position of District Manager for United Insurance where he relocated to Bakersfield, CA and eventually retired in 1993. Leon loved sports including billiards, baseball and football. His passion for competition and comradeship led him to the town billiards where he played pool since he was a young boy. Later in life, he was inducted into the Eagles' Hall of Fame (Bakersfield, CA) for his efforts in establishing the first pool league and supporting the local pool room. He also played semi-pro baseball as a pitcher for the Chicago Cubs, but an injury shortened his baseball career. Leon's passion for football was deep rooted in his upbringing and he was a follower of the "Alabama Crimson Tide," embracing the Bear Bryant years. There was a well-established dent in his recliner as you would most certainly find him sitting in front of the TV watching a college football game. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, the restoration of hot rods and educating other people (either willingly or unwillingly) on local, national and global politics. His love for food followed him beyond the Navy enjoying cooking and critiquing food dishes throughout his life. His stubborn ways and principled centeredness made for a solid foundation. Leon, you will be greatly missed! Doughty-Calhoun-O'Meara www.bakersfield.com/obits