Tribal Citizen Obituary

Leon was born to Aleena and Franklin Gochanour on December 25, 1929 in Addy, WA. Leon passed away at the age of 92 on January 10, 2022. His name spelled backward is Noel. No one thought to ask Grandma if she did this on purpose. In his later years with his white curly hair and beard many children believed he was Santa Claus. There was those who would just stop and give him their Christmas list. He also always had a pocket full of Wethers Candy, giving it out to just about everyone for a smile.

Growing up Leon lived a lot of places. Going to school on Benham Lane in Brookings, living with Aunt Eva on the Umpqua River to go to school. Serving his country in Korea. He drove truck to the front line, full of men or ammunition. He was proud of his service but like all men of war it left deep scars. He returned to the US in Washington State where on a blind date he met Gloria Hansen. April 5, 2022 they would have been married 70 years.

They made their home behind the old Smith River Post Office. There they started growing a family. Around 1961, he moved his family up on the hill he loved. He could look out on the Mouth of the Smith River and the Ocean.

Except for a short time, working for George Lucas on Star Wars Return of the Jedi fixing scenery. Leon worked in the lumber industry. Becoming a plannerman he was very happy he had all of his fingers when he retired.

Fishing was his favorite past time. Either on river, lakes or oceans he loved to eat any seafood. Lobster was his favorite. Leon took his children to fish camp to see Grandma Amelia Brown. Leon loved and respected her. She was part of his family. Leon taught his children who their ancestors were and what they did. From Charles Brown, Betsy A Grimes, Chamet, Henry Brown, Sarah Channon, Jessemine Brown and so on. Our heritage is rich.

He is survived by his wife Glora, children Charles (Roxeen), Christy (Bob), Sandy (Clayton) and Roxanne. Out of nine children born to Aleena two survived. Sisters Anna (Glen) Campbell and Anice Nelson. Leon is missed and loved by all his family, wife, children, grand children, great grandchildren and his great great grandchildren and those who's life he touched. We know he loved us.

We would like to thank the Tolowa Deeni' Nation, and the men who came and did yard work. His friends who had kind words and helped during this hard time. There are so many, Thank you!

-The family of Leon Gochanour