Leo Desmond

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Retired USAF CMSgt. Leo G. Desmond, 87, of Belleville, IL, born May 22, 1932, in Weymouth, MA, passed away Thursday, September 5, 2019, at his residence.

Mr. Desmond was a member of the Boy Scouts of America and Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, Belleville, IL. He served his country for 29 years in the United States Air Force.

Leo was preceded in death by his parents, David F. Sr. and Annie E., nee Welch, Desmond; five brothers, Timothy A. Desmond, David F. Desmond, John J. Desmond, Charles H. Desmond, and Richard J. Desmond; and two sisters, Mildred E. Nardo and Dorothy A. Lennon.

Surviving are his wife of 50 years, Ann, nee Rappa-Torelli, Desmond, whom he married on March 16, 1969;
four sons, Leo D. Jr. (Patricia) Desmond of Florida, Anthony J. (Gail) Torelli of Ohio, Stephen J. (Lory) Torelli of New York, and Joseph A. Torelli of Wisconsin;
six grandchildren, Melissa, Elizabeth Matthew, Andrew, Amber, and Gina;
and five great-grandchildren, John, Liam, Emily, Shawn, and Ella.

The family wishes to thank HSHS Hospice for the care given to Leo.

Memorials may be made to the Boy Scouts of America, Lewis & Clark Council or to Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.

Visitation: Friends may visit from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, September 8, 2019, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL and from 9 to 9:45 a.m. Monday, September 9, 2019, at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, Belleville, IL. Military honors will be performed at 9:45 a.m. Monday at the church.

Funeral: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, September 9, 2019, at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, Belleville, IL, with Fr. Matthew Elie officiating.

Private family burial will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO.

Condolences:

8 Comments on Leo Desmond

David and Joni Kissee said : Guest Report May 11, 2020 at 12:25 AM

We are so saddened by the loss of Leo He was a friend and mentor while being raised in a military family he gave me much wisdom when I questioned my parents You will be missed I am sure Dean had a cool one waiting for you at the heavenly gates

  • Kansas City
  • Missouri
Dan Mathews said : Guest Report Sep 30, 2019 at 6:43 PM

Leo was a great Scouter and patch trader. Traded with him for many years. Loved to talk to him about all of the changes in Scouting, the local weather, and also about his Cardinals baseball. He will be missed by many. R.I.P. Brother

  • Marseilles
  • illinois
Russ Mathews said : Guest Report Sep 21, 2019 at 2:12 PM

We were Scouting friends ! I wish I had known Leo earlier in Life. He was a great Scout leader !!!!!!!

  • Herrin
  • Illinois
Chris Ziebold said : Guest Report Sep 19, 2019 at 1:15 PM

Leo was a friend and mentor. His leadership in Scouting especially through Wood Badge was a huge inspiration for me. My prayers for the family.

  • Waterloo
  • Illinois
Brownie and Bob said : Guest Report Sep 08, 2019 at 2:16 PM

Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the family

  • Rio Rancho
  • N.M.
Sandra Fortner said : Guest Report Sep 07, 2019 at 8:57 PM

My late husband, Clay & I thought very highly of Leo, "Papa Bear". He was a very special man and will be dearly missed. My deepest sympathy to his family.

  • Steeleville
  • ILLINOIS
James Simpson said : Guest Report Sep 07, 2019 at 6:37 PM

Wishing for comfort and peace to Leo's family and this would include the members of his Scouting Family. He was a steadfast friend and servant leader to all. RIP my friend.

  • O'Fallon
  • IL
Dennis and Faye Bathon said : Guest Report Sep 07, 2019 at 1:30 AM

Many happy memories with Leo and Boy Scouts. Will miss him. Prayers for his family

  • MOUNT VERNON
  • Illinois

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