Leo A. Slattery

Age 94, passed away on Sunday, December 5, 2004 at a local nursing home. Leo was born in Appleton on July 13, 1910, son of the late Frank and Mary Slattery. He grew up in Appleton and worked at the family’s business, Slattery’s Ice Cream and Candy Store where he made many friends. In 1941, Leo left Appleton to serve in the United States Army in the 135th Medical Corps. Here he experienced some of the most important times of his life. He was proud of his service to our country, and enjoyed telling stories of his war-time experiences. Leo was a member of the Kaukauna American Legion Post #41. Upon his discharge from the Army, he returned home to find employment as a Department Manager at the H.C. Prange Company in downtown Appleton. Here, too, he made many friends and enjoyed his work for the company until his retirement in 1974. Leo married Hannah Rosenthal after his military service, and she preceded him in death. In 1990, Leo married Phyllis Bennett Foxgrover in Kaukauna, she survives. He found pleasure in growing flowers of many varieties, and he transformed his back yard into a colorful display for family and friends to enjoy. Leo was a lifetime member of the National Gardening Club. He also loved words and languages and taught himself numerous phrases in several languages. Until just recently, he and Phyllis did the crossword puzzle in the daily paper and made up their own word games. Leo also enjoyed books and reading, he displayed considerable skill in writing poetry, and was a member of the Marathon Bridge Club. In Leo and Phyllis’ home are displayed antiques that Leo collected over the years, including several items from the Van Nortwick mansion in Appleton.

Leo is survived by his wife: Phyllis Foxgrover Slattery of Kaukauna; two step-sons: David (Marsha) Foxgrover of Batavia, Illinois and Norman Foxgrover of Appleton; five step-grandchildren: Craig Foxgrover, Sara Foxgrover, Amy (Chris) Lindstrom, Lori (Todd) Keating and their children Cienna and Chenoa, and Kari (Steve) McDonald and their children Grant and Claire; a nephew: Mack (Ann) Slattery of Manitowoc; a niece: Sue (Donald) Fogltanz of Manitowoc, as well as several grand-nieces and grand-nephews. He is also survived by the many very special friends who were such an important part of Leo’s life over the years. Leo was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Hannah, and nine brothers and sisters.

A memorial service for Leo will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, December 8, 2004 at IMMANUEL UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST, 510 Sullivan Avenue in Kaukauna with Rev. Melinda Feller and Rev. David Foxgrover officiating. The family will receive relatives and friends following the services at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested that memorial contributions be directed to Immanuel United Church of Christ or to the Salvation Army.

Phyllis would like to extend her most sincere gratitude to the countless friends and caregivers who have shown so much love and concern during Leo’s illness. Special among them is Leo’s hospice nurse, Rachel Schroeder. Rachel was so very thoughtful, caring, and helpful to us – her kindness will never be forgotten.

FARGO FUNERAL HOME
400 W. Wisconsin Avenue
Kaukauna, WI 54130
920-766-6200