Leslie Gene Washington

Leslie Gene Washington age 88, of Holgate, born on July 21, 1936, in Alamosa, Colorado, passed away on November 24, 2024 at the Defiance Inpatient Hospice Center. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication to his family.

Les graduated from Mosca High School in Colorado in 1954 and furthered his education by earning an Associate's degree from Adams State University in Alamosa, Colorado. He dedicated 38 years to the Colorado Army National Guard achieving the high rank of Chief Warrant Officer 5, a role that reflected his commitment to his community and country. His passion for life and engagement with family enriched the lives of those around him. He shared a remarkable partnership with his wife, Diane (Abel) Washington of Holgate, Ohio, whom he married on November 29, 2007, in Las Vegas, NV. Their marriage stood as a testament to their love and companionship, marking a proud chapter in Les’ life.

Les is survived by his devoted wife, Diane; his daughter Laura (Washington) Campbell of Denver, Colorado; sons Kris Washington of Parker, Colorado and Isaiah Washington of Westminster, Colorado. He is also cherished by his stepchildren, Jack and Denise Abel of Napoleon, Ohio; Pat and Bobbie Abel of Holgate, Ohio, and MeLaine and Clayton Williams of Napoleon, Ohio. Additionally, he leaves behind four grandchildren, Steven, Debra, Blake and Jenaya; five step-grandchildren, and two step-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought joy to his life. Les is also survived by his brother, Tom Washington and wife Dory of Dalhart, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Cecil (Simonds) Washington, whose memory will continue to live on in the stories and hearts of those he loved.

Family and friends are invited to honor Les’ life during the visitation on November 27, 2024, starting at 10:00 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 AM at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Holgate, Ohio. The address is 710 Joe E Brown Avenue, Holgate, OH 43527. The family welcomes all who knew Les to join them in celebrating his enduring spirit.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the church, VFW or a charity of your choice.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the Zachrich Family Funeral Home of Holgate.