He had an easygoing, friendly personality and a gift for finding the humor in almost any situation. He provided his family and friends with wonderful stories that have already been passed down to his children and grandchildren and which his family will continue to pass along to his young great-grandchildren, who so far number three and a half (one is due in the coming year).
A resident of La Crescenta from 1959 to 1977, Les retired from the city of Los Angeles, where he worked as a radio technician, repairing the radio equipment, both in-shop and in the field, for the L.A. Police and Fire departments, and the U.S. Coast Guard. His longtime interest in communications equipment coupled with his natural friendliness, made this an enjoyable career for him. During his years in La Crescenta, he and Velda were part of the La Crescenta Presbyterian Church family.
Les and Velda spent their retirement years in several locations, including Lake Isabella, Kernville, Porterville and finally Clovis, where they lived for the past 15 years. Les's grandchildren were his pride and joy, so much of his and Velda's newfound time was spent with all four, either at their home or taking them on vacations, often camping. Les not only taught his grandchildren to fish, he gave them the opportunity to know each other as cousins, and along with Velda, instilled in them wonderful values and treasured lifelong memories.
Words cannot fully measure the life of this man and the impact he had on his family. He is missed.
Les is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Velda House, sister Gladys Soennichsen of Fullerton, son Rod House and wife Jane of Clovis, daughter Gelene Collings and husband Larry of La Crescenta, grandchildren Hayley Dziak and husband Mark of Mt. Washington, Aimee Rossini and husband Giuseppe of Madera, Kacey Martino and husband Nick of Clovis; and Cory Collings of Pasadena. His great-grandchildren include Severino and Bella Rossini, Soren Dziak and Baby Martino expected in 2005.
Remembrances may be made to the Nancy Hinds Hospice, 1616 W. Shaw, Suite B-6, Fresno, CA 93711; or Clovis United Methodist Church, 1726 Pollasky Ave., Clovis, CA 93612.
