Edward J. Leavitt

I Knew Ed as a quiet dignified Marine JAG who always had time to stop and ask how I was and how things were going. A true Gentleman.

I was stunned by news of my good friend and mentor's passing. I was Ed's executive officer during his command of the Marine lawyer reserve unit in San Diego, but I also knew him in law school. He was a kind, caring individual with great leadership qualities. My regret is that we lost contact with one another over the years. I will miss him greatly.

Vic Bianchini, Judge of the Superior Court, Retired; Colonel, USMCR, Retired.

While we knew Ed a short time while we were building our house he was a great neighbor to have nearby. Always friendly, courteous and respectful.

Ed Leavitt, an accomplished man of integrity. Unassuming and quiet. Great shooting companion. Our deepest sympathy.

Ed was an interesting chapter in my life. I'm sorry to hear of his passing.

Col Leavitt was a mentor and friend to my father-in-law, Jay W. Oppenheim. Jay was a member of the USMC OCS class of 1957 (along with future Commandant Carl Mundy). Jay was subsequently assigned to the Pioneer Company at Camp Talega, Camp Pendleton, CA where Ed was his Commanding Officer. Jay often spoke of Ed with great respect and fondness and he visited him from time to time during his visits to CA. Ed's passing will be felt deeply by Jay.
S/F
LtCol John D. Downey

Commanding Officer, mentor, fellow attorney, best man, and good friend since 1962. Not being able to share our mutual birthday both Marine and otherwise this year is a tremendous personal loss. We served together at Iwakuni, Japan; Soc Trang, RVN; 4th Tanks and in the Lawyers/Judges San Diego unit. Ed was a friend to all, enemy to none, a true gentleman Marine in every sense of the term. When I report in to my last duty station through the sentry at Saint Peter's Gate I will ask the Marine...

Mr. Leavitt was unfailingly kind and courteous whenever he visited our office -- it's unusual to remember the name of the staff, but he always did. I'll miss his big smile, and even bigger laugh.

ED Leavitt was one of my first mentors as a lawyer when I was hired by RLP&L in June,1974. He was a patient and avid instructor to a then new lawyer. We remained friends over the years and would get together now and then for "chow" because he never ate regular food. I would never let him drive anywhere we went because he drove like he was still in a tank and he had no sense of direction. We spoke in early September this year and he was as upbeat as usual. He was an inspiration in my career...