Leroy Stockstell

Leroy Stockstell, 83, of Morro Bay, was born in March 1927 in Missouri, and passed away peacefully Friday, Oct. 29, 2010. He grew up in Wakenda, Mo., and after graduation from Wakenda High School, began a career with the fire department in Kansas City, Mo. Leroy relocated to California, where he joined the police department. Initially, he worked for the California Highway Patrol, then switched to the Sheriff''s Department. He served in Los Angeles County and Catalina Island, until he retired in the 1970s. In retirement, Leroy became an avid collector of antique and collectibles. He enjoyed going to garage and estate sales hunting for that "special find." He and his warm and friendly smile will be missed by all that knew him. Leroy is survived by his loving wife of 15 years, Dixie Stockstell; children Tamara Stockstell, Martin Stockstell (Carol) and John Stockstell; stepdaughter, Sherri Zundieck; nine grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Delores Stockestell; and daughter-in-law, Marsha Stockstell. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m Saturday, Dec. 4, 2010, at St. Joseph''s Catholic Church, 360 Park Ave., in Cayucos. Following the service, a celebration of his life will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Eagles Lodge, 2988 N. Main St. in Morro Bay. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice Partners of the Central Coast or the American Heart Association.