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Joseph Leopold Obituary

Joseph William Leopold

Joseph William Leopold passed away peacefully at Lighthouse Memory Care in Anacortes on Sunday, February 22nd with family at his side. Joe was 88, courageously battling Alzheimer's for three years.

Joe was devoted to his first wife, Sarah, until her passing in 1986. Joe taught U.S. History and Political Science at Shoreline High School. He also had a passion for aviation, and especially for outdoor recreation. Skiing endured as his favorite well into his 80's, having taught skiing at Snoqualmie Summit and later at Stevens Pass.

Another of Joe's passions was RV'ing and boating. He loved the clear mountain air and the salty sea, and spent a lifetime finding trails, routes, and passages that afforded ample amounts of both.

Joe is survived by his 2nd wife Rachel, two sons from his first marriage, Scott (of Renton) and Mark (of Anacortes); beloved daughter-in-law Peggy; 5 grandchildren; 5 great grand-children; and adoring older sister Fern Leopold (of Mt. Vernon). Joe was a devoted husband, father, and brother.

Joe's good nature and quick smile will be missed by so many he touched in a life well lived.

Family and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences at

www.whidbeymemorial.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Seattle Times on Mar. 1, 2015.

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Leo Valenzuela

June 24, 2018

It is sad to know of Joe's passing. Our deepest Sympathy to all his family. As a fellow teacher at Shoreline High School I remember him for his leadership, candor, his passion for teaching history and his love of skiing. He always stood up for the teaching profession and was an very active member of Shoreline Educational Association. Every day for him at Shoreline was a busy day from the time he arrived till the moment he left. His sincere smile was there regardless of what was going on. A very positive man, he made Shoreline High School a very progressive school for students and staff. I feel very fortunate to have worked with Joe, it was an honor. He was a true Professional Educator, a wonderful person and good friend.

Dan Oster

September 10, 2017

I was a student of his at Shoreline, graduating in 1974. He gave me a love for history and a belief that I was of value. I became a teacher because of him. He was a great man who undoubtedly left a positive mark on thousands. I owe him more than I can say.Dan OsterAthol, Idaho

March 6, 2015

I remember Mr. Leopold as the teacher that got me interested in history. He wanted his students to know the cause and effect of history rather than just be able to regurgitate names, places and dates.
Bert Stubbs

Zels Bryan Johnson

March 6, 2015

He was a great teacher, I had him for one class and he made a difference in my life. I am sorry for your loss may he rest in peace. He had many interests and I am glad he chose teaching. I am glad our paths crossed in life.

March 4, 2015

Thank for sharing such a great picture. Nice to see that smile again. My thoughts are with you. Deb Gross

Victor Scarpelli

March 2, 2015

Dear Leopold Family, you have our deepest sympathy in the recent loss of your loved one Joe. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. The Scarpelli Family

March 2, 2015

He was a great neighbor. He will be missed. MaSanda LaRa Gadd

March 1, 2015

So sorry to hear about Joe's passing!! He and Sarah and later Rachel were such wonderful neighbors and friends to us for many years! May you feel God's loving comfort!! Praying for you! Love from Forrest and Carol Wills

Scott Smith

March 1, 2015

Great man!

March 1, 2015

We are so sorry to hear of Joe's passing. Not only was he a good neighbor but a very good friend. We had so many good times together. shared our lives with support, fun and laughter for nearly 40 years!Will always remember our weekly skiing and many great trips together.
May he be granted Eternal Memory.
Michael and Ilona Melnyk and family

Julie Kimball

March 1, 2015

Mr. Leopold was a wonderful Teacher respected and loved. I'm sorry for your loss.

Sheila Melang Cook

March 1, 2015

Rest in peace Mr. Leopold, you are the reason for my love of history! God bless your family

Lori Edgar

March 1, 2015

I had him for US History at Shoreline and loved that class, mostly because he made it so interesting by stepping outside of the box. So sorry to hear of his passing and my heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Jim Anunson

March 1, 2015

He was by far the best history teacher I ever had! 1962 He sat up front and told the history story reading from a yellow note pad. It was so very interesting, so very positive and encouraging.

March 1, 2015

Mr. Leopold (as we knew him at North Kitsap in Poulsbo in 1960) was a great teacher and really got us involved in current events. A teacher's teacher and always fair. Sherol White

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