Leon Lemaire

Leon "Lee" Lemaire, 94, passed away at home after a brief illness on August 1, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nevada. A lifelong high achiever and dynamic presence in both professional and personal spheres, Lee left an indelible mark on those who knew him.

Born on April 16, 1930, in Moosup, Connecticut, to Rouville and Delia Jacques Lemaire, Lee began his journey with a strong foundation in faith and service. He attended St. Thomas Seminary in Hartford before serving four years in the United States Navy. Following his military service, he pursued higher education at the University of Connecticut, where he earned both his Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctor degrees. During his time at UConn, he was an active member of the Delta Chi Fraternity.

After meeting on a blind date, Lee and Jane Guilford were married June 9, 1956. They raised their family in Connecticut buying their first home in Southington; then moving to West Hartford, where he was actively involved with the West Hartford Art League; and lastly Farmington, where he served proudly on the Board of Education, before retiring in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Lee's career was defined by a deep commitment to labor law and advocacy for small businesses. He began as a staff attorney at Mid-Atlantic Trucking before moving into public policy as a lobbyist for the Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA). In 1978, alongside his wife Jane, Lee founded the Connecticut Small Business Federation (CSBF), an organization that would become a vital voice for small business owners across the state. As CEO of CSBF, Lee championed legislative initiatives and developed accessible health insurance options tailored to the needs of small enterprises. His leadership helped shape a more equitable business environment in Connecticut.

Lee was predeceased by his beloved wife of 52 years, Jane Guilford Lemaire, who passed away in 2008. He was also preceded in death by his four siblings Blanche (Prescott), Roger, Raynold, and Janice Lemaire.

He is survived by his two daughters and their families: Dawna Lee Lemaire and her husband Scott Burnham of Pennington, New Jersey; their children Emmett, Sophia, and Georgia Burnham-Lemaire; and Monique Lemaire Watkins of Edmond, Oklahoma; her sons Michael and Evan Dunning; Evan's wife Stephanie and great-grandchildren Nora and Peter Dunning.

Known for his forceful and outspoken character, Lee was admired by colleagues and loved ones alike for his unwavering convictions and zest for life. A passionate collector of art and devoted music enthusiast, he found joy in creative expression. His favorite song-Frank Sinatra's "I Did It My Way"-was more than just a tune: it was a reflection of how he lived each day with purpose and authenticity.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to those who carry forward his legacy.