Leon Griffith

1929 - 2015

LOUIS "LEON" GRIFFITH Louis Leon Griffith, 85, peacefully passed away in his home in Chico, CA on May 5, 2015. Leon was born on November 10, 1929 in Hollywood, CA to E.I. Griffith and Anna Louise Griffith. After graduating from Santa Rosa High School, he joined the U.S. Navy. Upon completion of service, Leon joined his family in Chico, where he met and married Ida B. Booze. Leon was well known as the owner/operator of a local retail furniture business for over 50 years. He was an avid race car builder/fan as well as an accomplished driver. In 1968, he achieved a personal goal when he joined the "200 Miles an Hour Club" by setting a world land speed record at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. Leon's generous annual donations to The Salvation Army, Torres Shelter, and Butte Humane Society helped provide ongoing support and care to the disadvantaged people and animals of our community. Leon lived life on his own terms; he did what he wanted, when he wanted and how he wantedthe world did not define himhe defined himself. Although he rarely showed the essence of his soul, those who came to know him understood and embraced him. He will be missed by many. Leon was preceded in death by his mother, father, and Ida, his wife of 60 years. Leon is survived by his brother, Don Griffith (Carol); his daughter, Theresa McNary; his son, Douglas Griffith; two grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. No services are planned. Arrangements are being handled by Newton-Bracewell. The family would like to thank Butte Hospice for their invaluable care and support. To view obituary, send condolences to the family, or share memories of Leon, go online to NewtonBracewell.com.