Leo Harvey Sheetz

January 6, 1924 - October 13, 2015

TRAVERSE CITY - Citing a bullet hole in his World War II infantryman’s helmet, Leo said sincerely nearly every day, “I’m just glad I woke up this morning!” He was grateful for all of his 91 years on earth, and he gladly shared his gratitude and enthusiasm with everyone from casual acquaintances to immediate family members. He died on October 13, after a short illness and a longer bout with Alzheimer’s. The son of Luther and Ethel Conrad Sheetz, Leo was born on January 6, 1924, in Logansport, Indiana. Leo married his first wife, Mary, before World War II, and then he served in the 44th Infantry Division and was awarded three bronze stars. After the war, he worked in sales and plant management in the meatpacking industry in Muncie and Bloomington, Illinois. Leo and Mary were the proud parents of two daughters, who survive: Sharon (Rudy) Stafford and Jean (David) Young, both in Indiana. Leo’s descendants now include five grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren. Mary died in 1991, and in 1993, Leo married Lu Mills, who survives. He is also fondly remembered by Lu’s daughter, Maurine (Frank) Slaughter and Lu’s son, Ray (Cathy) Gazlay. Deceased before Leo in addition to his parents and first wife were Leo’s brother Deyoe, sister Airebelle, and son-in-law, David. Leo was a hard worker who enjoyed three decades of retirement, during which he traveled, fished, danced, played golf, and generally took pleasure in living. Home was in Indiana or in Seven Springs, Florida, or, since 2000, in Traverse City—or anywhere his family was. His characteristic advice was “Be kind to one another,” and he modeled the kindness that he recommended. Leo’s family thanks the dedicated staff of Grand Traverse Pavilions, day care and Aspen unit. A memorial is planned on November 2 in Rochester, Indiana. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer’s Association or the American Heart Association would be appropriate.