Leo C Essick II (Lee), 70, was born in Chicago on October 24, 1949 and peacefully passed away on April 6, 2020.
While still a teenager, he obtained his private pilot's license. He graduated from Mt. Prospect High School and continued his education obtaining a degree in aeronautical engineering. He then obtained his commercial pilot's license and worked as a flight engineer for TWA. Later he became a manager at Illinois Bell Telephone Company and retired after 30 years of service.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Bonnie; two sons, Brian (Beth) of Mason, MI and Brett (Jodi) of Montgomery, IL. He has two grandsons, Ethan and Jacob of Montgomery, IL.
Lee was a caring man with a great sense of humor and a fun loving personality. He loved flying, boating, vintage trains, the Cubs and was an avid bowler. He loved spending time with his family and friends.
He was a great lover of animals. In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kenab, Utah or PAWS Chicago.
A celebration of Lee's life will be held at a later date, as soon as it is safe for his family and friends to gather together to celebrate the life of this loving man.