Leo Harris Rector

August 18, 1919 – November 21, 2015

Leo Harris Rector, affectionately known as Papa Leo, part of the greatest generation that ever lived, left his loving family and friends to take his place in heaven on Saturday (Nov. 21, 2015).

Leo was born on Aug. 18, 1919 near Afton, Oklahoma, the son of John F. and Edna Harris Rector. Leo married Juanita Fern Acton on Aug. 3, 1947 at No. 10 church near Armstrong. She survives.

Survivors also include his sons, Michael Rector (Ellen) and Jon Rector (Cathy); six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and his brother, Paul Rector.

Leo was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Bernice LaFuze, Fern Atwood, Dennis Rector, Earl Rector, John Rector and Orton Rector. Leo's greatest loss was his son, Carl, who died from leukemia at the age of 13.

Leo graduated from Urbana High School in 1938 and completed his junior year at the University of Illinois in forestry before he was drafted into the military in June 1941. Leo graduated from Officer Candidate School in October 1942 and served as company commander of the 1751st Ordnance Supply Company of the 8th Air Force, 388 Bomb Group in England from April 1943 to June 1945. Leo was released from service, achieving the rank of major, on May 3, 1946.

Leo owned and operated "Rectors on West Church," an ice cream and sandwich shop on West Church Street in Champaign, from 1946 to 1952. Leo began his long career with Eisner Food Stores in 1952, beginning as store manager and rising quickly to head grocery buyer for Eisner Jewel Food Stores. He retired in 1981.

Leo was active with The Boy Scouts Arrowhead Council for many years. He was proud that he was an Eagle Scout and was so proud that his sons, Michael and Jon, also achieved that honor.

Leo was a member of several organizations which included the American Legion, Ansar Shrine, C-U Elks, University Club and the Masonic Lodge of which he was a life member.

Leo was also a member of First Presbyterian Church in Champaign.

BURIAL : Collison Cemetery

Collison, Vermilion County, Illinois, USA

MEMORIAL ID   155335738

Published in the Champaign, Illinois News-Gazette. Nov 24, 2015