The community of Chehalis mourns the passing of Leo Henry Pope, a beloved figure who departed on July 22, 2025. Remembered as a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, nephew, cousin, and friend, his remarkable journey touched many lives. Leo Pope’s iconic personality and profound contributions to Chehalis History and local life will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Born on April 3, 1942, to Henry Ames Pope and Mildred Luella (Debow) Pope, Leo’s roots were firmly planted in the rich soil of their family dairy farm on Rice Road in Chehalis. From a young age, he embraced the demanding yet rewarding life of a farmer, quickly acquiring essential skills in livestock management, crop stewardship, machinery operation, and vital carpentry, welding, electrical, and plumbing.
Despite the rigorous demands of farm life, Leo excelled academically and athletically during his time at Chehalis schools. He famously rode his bike daily across what would become Interstate 5, demonstrating his dedication. His passion for sports shone brightly in baseball and football, where he led the W.F. West High School Bearcats as quarterback and team captain to a state championship in 1960, setting records that stand to this day.
Following his successful high school career, Leo pursued higher education, attending Centralia Community College before graduating with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Central Washington University. Working diligently to finance his studies, he embarked on a fulfilling eleven-year teaching career at Winlock Elementary School, a testament to his commitment to Local Education.
In 1964, Leo married his high school sweetheart, Juanita “Nita” Wendling, and together they welcomed two children into their lives before their eventual divorce. This chapter marked an important period of personal growth and family building for Leo.
A new chapter began for Leo in 1972 when he met Cheryl Diane Wallace at a Washington Education Association Rep Assembly in Olympia. They married on December 21, 1974, and embarked on a shared journey, purchasing a farm in Galvin, Washington. Their combined efforts led to the significant expansion of their agricultural enterprise, even repurchasing Leo’s ancestral farmlands in Chehalis, solidifying their footprint in Washington Agriculture.
Beyond his farming endeavors, Leo was a true Community Leader, actively serving as president of the Lewis County Farm Bureau in the 1980s. He supplemented the farm income during winters by working on a crab processing boat in Alaska, showcasing his diverse work ethic. In his leisure, Leo found joy in hunting, fishing, watching sports—remaining a devout fan of the Bearcat football team and the Seahawks—and selflessly helping others.
Leo leaves behind a cherished family, including his devoted wife, C. Diane Wallace Pope; his children, Troy-Skott Pope (JR Welden), Amy Audine Pope, and LeAnn Crowell (Ben Crowell); and his grandchildren, Faith Crowell, Autumn Crowell, Ariella J. Crowell, and Travis Welden-Pope. He is also survived by his aunt, Christle (Debow) Scheuber; uncle, Ralph Debow (Joye Debow); and numerous cousins, all of whom will carry forward his memory.
Friends and family are invited to honor Leo’s enduring legacy at a potluck luncheon and Celebration of Life on Saturday, August 23, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., held at the Adna Grange Hall, 123 Dieckman Road, Chehalis. This gathering serves as a heartfelt tribute to a man who significantly shaped his community, truly embodying the spirit of a remarkable individual, making this an important local Obituary.
