Leo Toay Sr.

leo toay sr.

Leo S. Toay, Sr., Fargo, ND, died Thursday, May 24, 2012 at Woodside Village in Grand Forks, ND.

Leo S. Toay, Sr. was born on March 1, 1927 to Sylvester and Ruth Toay in Jamestown, North Dakota.  He graduated from St. John’s Academy in Jamestown, ND in 1944 and enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving in the Occupation Force in Okinawa for one year immediately following World War II. Known as “Pappy the Cook”, Leo continued in the North Dakota National Guard from 1945-1970 and from 1972-1982 at which time he retired from Military service. Leo Toay and Marjorie Eells were married in Jamestown on February 6, 1946.  Shortly thereafter, Leo began working for the U.S. Postal Service, retiring in 1987 after nearly 40 years as a Letter Carrier.

Despite limited mobility in the past year, Leo was very content, and he spoke of his deceased wife, Marjorie, in the present tense on most occasions. He shared many memories of his life in rural North Dakota and in the military with his children and grandchildren.

Leo was the Johnny Carson of “Valley 4000” and never lost his wit and sense of humor. Leo enjoyed cooking large meals for his family and anybody who showed up at his door. Leo loved spending time with his wife, reading the Fargo Forum and listening to the radio.

He is survived by children, Kelly (Mark) Sertich, Grand Forks, ND; Paula Toay, Gurnee, IL; Marjorie (Robert) Olson, Fargo, ND; Leo (Suzanne) Toay, II, Maple Grove, MN; sister, Ruth Ann (Ernest) Willey, Jamestown, ND; brother, James “Pat” (Ruth) Toay, Mora, MN; 6 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

Leo was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Marjorie, and his sister, Mary Klose.

Leo’s family would like to thank the staff of “Valley 4000” and to Altru Hospice for the care they provided to Leo during his stay. We know in our hearts that Leo and Marge are together in Heaven, taking over the Kitchen.

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  1. Cape Coral FloridaMarg this has been a rough 2 years for you. You can now rest knowing you Mom, and Dad are together again. May you find peace knowing they are in God’s home now.

  2. Osage MN
    Kelly and family: Not sure if you remember me from St. Mary’s, but I saw that Leo passed away and want to extend my deepest sympathy to you and your family. I remember your Dad from St. Mary’s and I know my Dad had coffe with him after they retired. My wish is that your family will have wonderful memories and God’s love to help you through this difficult time.

    Dee Dee (Doyle) Olson

  3. Grand Forks, ND
    To my dear Jennie and family – no one wants to say good-bye to such a wonderful Man but knowing who he’s gone to see again just warms my heart. I hope you all have found peace in his passing and think of all the wonderful years you had with him here on earth. The irises were indeed a final goodbye in knowing he’s happy in Heaven with his beautiful bride. Love and prayers to you all…

  4. FARGO ND
    Dear Marjorie & Family,

    I can’t comprehend just how sad you must feel for the loss of someone you love.This sorrowful time must still feel unreal And you’re looking for strength from above.

    I hope,from my heart,that your pain will decrease,That your spirit will gain strength again,And I pray that your faith will create inner peace And that God will send blessings

    Till then,if you need me to lighten your load,I’m waiting to come to your aid. Just call on me,and I’ll walk down that road,until the dark times start to fade.

  5. Alborn MN
    Dear Kelly & Family,
    So sorry to hear of the passing of your dad & grandpa. Just knowing that he and your mom are reunited, is comforting. The irises are blooming, and together, they’re cooking up angel food!
    Sending, prayers, love & hugs,
    Mick and Carol

  6. Fargo ND
    My dear friend’s Father lived a full life. He had the fortune to have spectacular children and the greatest wife created! He now is safe with his beloved in God’s Kingdom. He will be missed as much as he was loved.


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