Leon Strand, an extraordinary adventurer, devoted father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, builder, traveler, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2024, just shy of his 91st birthday. Known for his feisty wit, kindness, intellect, and an unmatched work ethic, Leon loved nothing more than gathering with loved ones, martini in hand and savoring life’s moments. Throughout his many vibrant chapters, he lived life to its fullest.

Leon was born on December 1, 1933, in Northwood, North Dakota. His parents, Raymond and Donna Strand (Long), moved the family to Los Angeles when Leon was young, along with his sister, Joanie. As a boy, Leon spent summers in Finley, North Dakota, working on his uncle’s farm, where he developed a love for hard work and a fondness for the countryside—a formative experience he often reminisced about.

In his early years, Leon spent summers fishing in Alaska, working as a first mate on a fishing boat, before enlisting in the Army, where he became a paratrooper. After his service, he returned to Los Angeles, where he met and married Patricia (Riley). Together they had five children: Warren, Kathy, twins Lisa and Kelly, and Tracy. Seeking a healthier environment for his family, Leon moved them to Santa Barbara in 1961. There, he founded Strand Painting and co-owned a business, Chicken Delight, with his parents, Ray and Donna. Though he and Patricia later divorced, Leon’s love for his family remained steadfast.

Leon’s greatest joy was spending time with his family, whether sailing, backpacking in the Sierras, skiing, or taking extended road trips to visit relatives all over the US, Alaska & British Columbia,. Often showing up with all five children in tow, Leon managed to make every trip an adventure. An active member of the Santa Barbara Ski Club and the Seashell Association, he instilled in his children a love for the outdoors and a strong work ethic.

At 55, Leon retired from painting to pursue his passion for building and remodeling homes. He moved to Joshua Tree, where he spent two decades transforming raw land into beautiful residences. Always dedicated to helping family, Leon traveled frequently to assist his children with remodeling projects. His craftsmanship and eye for design were evident in the homes he built in places as diverse as Santa Barbara, Sun Valley, Kaneohe (Hawaii), Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree, Quadra Island (British Columbia, one of his favorites) and Bishop (California). Bishop was where Leon spent the last beautiful years of his life.

Leon is survived by his five children Warren Strand (Catherine Strand), Kathy Strand Spieler (Paul Spieler), Lisa Strand, Kelly Van Winden (Jim Van Winden) and Tracy Strand Fiscalini (Larry Fiscalini), 12 Grandchildren, Cory Spieler, Cara Spieler, Katie Spieler, Misty Maa, Micah Maa, Mehana Maa, Maluhia Maa, Adlee Van Winden, Torrey Van WInden, Kai Filscalini, Lauren Strand, Summer Strand and 2 Great Grandchildren, Kawa Maa & Raise Maa, his sister Joanie Kieding, and many loving relatives.

Leon’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His legacy is one of love, adventure, and resilience.