Leo Walter Wilson

Leo Walter Wilson '58, who had a long career with the Oregon Department of Forestry, died in May at his home in Philomath. He was 72.

Leo Wilson was born in Jasper, Ore., and raised in Lowell. He attended Oregon College of Education (now Western Oregon University) for two years, then transferred to the Oregon State School of Forestry. After receiving his degree, he worked for many years for the state forestry department, fighting forest fires and serving as a fire lookout. After postings at Springfield, Newport, Siletz, and Dallas, he moved to Philomath to become a district forester. He was then promoted to a position at the Salem head office.

While there he developed forest- fire safety practices, worked with the state legislature on firefighting cost issues, and investigated incidents of arson. He was recognized nationally for his fire safety work with a Bronze Smokey Award.

He was a member of College United Methodist Church in Philomath, served on the Philomath city council, was a Cub Scoutmaster, and advised the high school forestry program. He was recognized by the city in 1996 as an outstanding volunteer. He is survied by his wife, Mary Lou of Philomath, daughters Sharon Corbin of Beaverton, Kathleen Wilson of Portland, Lori Wilson of Corvallis, and Mary Gaffney of Vancouver, Wash., son Robert Wilson of Prineville, brothers George Wilson and Robert Wilson of Oregon City, and seven grandchildren.