Leonard L. Pourchot
He is survived by his wife, Deloris Pourchot, brother Eugene Pourchot, four sons (Patrick, Thomas, Eric, and Regan), nine grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.
Born in Bulpitt, Illinois, he earned degrees at Eastern Illinois University, University of Wisconsin, and a doctorate in education at University of Northern Colorado. He taught at Mendota High School (IL), was a junior high school principal in Ripon, WI, and was the Director of Lassen Junior College in California. He taught at Colorado State College, University of Nevada, and Northern Illinois University, where he retired after 20 years of service. He was a founder of Thresholds in Education, a journal devoted to secondary education, and developed the “Pourchot Mechanical Manipulation Test” which measured hand tool dexterity.
After retirement, he lived in Neshkoro, Wisconsin with his wife, Mary Ellen (Orr) Pourchot. After her death, he moved to Blacksburg, Virginia, where he was married to Deloris (Gregory) Pourchot. More recently, the couple moved to Lincoln, Illinois.
Pourchot served as a first sergeant in the U.S. Army in the European Theatre from 1943-46. He was awarded a Silver Star and a Purple Heart. He estimated that he had planted over 500,000 Christmas trees in his lifetime, mostly in Adams and Marquette Counties in Wisconsin. He funded scholarships for many years at Adams-Friendship and Kincaid High Schools.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Cancer Society or Northern Illinois University Foundation may be made in his name.
Visitation hours are 2-3 p.m. on March 14. Services will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday, March 14 at Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship, Wisconsin, followed by burial at Mount Repose Cemetery. Directions can be found at www.roseberrys.com
Deloris,
I so enjoyed Leonard’s sense of humor and just being in his presence with you. I well remember when we celebrated your marriage and how much light he brought into your life. May God be with you as you adjust to his absence.
Bonnie
I met Leonard while in Lincoln, IL, before I moved to Milwaukee last year. I only met him a few times as he joined his wife at our church, but I had some very enjoyable conversations with him. It was always a joy to see him. I knew his health had declined some but was surprised to see this news in the Lincoln Courier. He lived quite a life, and his family is in my thoughts and prayers, especially Deloris. Blessings, Pastor Andrew Nyren
Delores,
I was saddened to learn that you had lost your best friend and husband.
I am sure you have many cherished memories of your life together.
With sympathy,
Lynda Harriman
Sending sincere condolences on the death of Leonard. He had a wonderful and illustrious career as did you, Eugene. I was at Meader School Christian Co. IL with both of you in the 1930’s. I have a photo of the class Leonard was in dated about 1935 that I would like to send to you. Note my email above. Sincerely, Shirley Waterman Harris, 81 Trailridge Ln. Springfield, IL 62704
Deloris, My thoughts and prayers are with you in the loss of your special friend and husband, Leonard. I always enjoyed seeing him at VAFCS meetings, etc. Sounds like he had an active, good life. Just wanted you to know that I am thinking of you. May God bless you.
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family in this time of sorrow.
Deloris, my prayers and special memories are for and of you. The photo of Leonard makes me think he could tell me another story and end it with his familiar deep throated laugh, OR maybe, again, he had the winning score of the game we just played. He was a dear fellow. I always enjoyed his company and friewndship.
Deloris – I remember fondly working with you on Family & Consumer Sciences issues with VA Cooperative Extension. I never had the pleasure of meeting your husband but remember how warmly you spoke of him. I experienced the same a few years ago and know how difficult the adjustment is, but wonderful memories help get you through. Please know that your friends in VA hold you in their thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Sorry to hear of Leonard’s passing. It was enjoyable reading about his life. Enjoy your memories.