(Nov. 13, 2008)
Leo Edward Kimmett died Nov. 13 at his home in Cañon City, Colo. He was born Nov. 4, 1915, in Powell, the son of Ethel (Barrett) Kimmet and William Kimmet.
He was raised in Powell and worked in the Civilian Conservation Corps in Yellowstone National Park. He graduated with a chemistry degree from Regis University in Denver in 1939 and served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
Leo married Julia C. Ziegler on Aug. 22, 1939, in Park, Kan. The couple had six sons, Arnel, Stephen, David, Michael, Gerald and James, and three daughters, Renee, Marilyn, and Ann.
Leo worked as a civil service employee at the Pueblo, Colo., Army Depot for most of his adult life. In his spare time, he enjoyed collecting antique phonographs. His collection is currently on display at the Cañon City Historical Museum. He also wrote several books and articles about his life's experiences, including time about his service in the CCC in Yellowstone, and his own family's attachment to Colorado's history.
He was a member of the Fremont/Custer Historical Society and St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Cañon City.
He is survived by his sons Arnel (Mary), Stephen (Debra), David (Anne Ewing), Michael, Gerald and James; daughters Renee Moravek and Ann (Dennis) Kitchin; sister, Virginia Alvey; 15 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Julia, in 2004; daughter Marilyn Fink, in 1990; brothers George, Lawrence, Fred and Robert; sister Agnes Elliott and his parents.
Funeral services and interment took place on Nov. 19 in Cañon City.