Regimental Number: J87920
Rank: Flying Officer
Leo, born on September 5, 1924 at Bezanson, was the second youngest of Roy and Maggie Robideau’s five children: Peter, Alfred, Amelia, Leo and Ernie. Leo’s father, Roy, was from International Falls, Michigan and his mother, Maggie, was from England. They arrived in the Bezanson area in 1917 and settled on Roy’s homestead. Leo received his education at the Lindsay School where he completed Grade 8. He then worked on the family farm and for other farmers for two years.
Leo enlisted with the Royal Canadian Air Force on October 28, 1942 at Edmonton and was a “mid-upper gunner” on a Lancaster. He arrived in England in September 1943 and served as a Flying Officer during World War II. Leo’s service included one tour with 30 sorties with Bomber Command. Leo was discharged on demobilization on July 11, 1945 and received the 1939-45 Star, Aircrew Europe Star & Clasp, Defense Medal, War Medal 1939-45 and the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal & Clasp.
He married Edith Stephens in Vancouver, BC and they had five children; Richard, Marlene, Linda, Cheryl and Della. In 1962, Leo and Edith moved to the US and eventually settled in Tillamook, Oregon in 1968 where he worked for Tillamook PUD until 1986. In his retirement, Leo liked to garden and putter around in his shop. As well, he enjoyed hunting, camping travelling and bowling. Leo also volunteered with the Boy Scouts and the Campfire Girls.
Leo passed away on March 16, 2016 and was cremated. At Leo’s request, there was not a funeral service. Edith still lives in Tillamook, Oregon.
Contributed by Wanda Zenner
Sources:
Smoky River to Grande Prairie History Book
Interview with Val (Robideau) Black – niece (provided birthdate)
Phone call with Edith Robideau – wife (confirmed Rank as being Pilot Officer)
Newspaper article provided by Val Black