Robert Burton Leslie

On the morning of November 10, Robert Burton Leslie, age 84, of Newberry, Florida, pulled up stakes and embarked on his one last, great, adventure.  His boss cat, Buddy, waited for him at the trailhead, while in the distance, the joyful sounds of his four other cats could be heard urging him on.  He cared more about the cats than himself.

Those not yet prepared for such a grand journey were left behind to tend the campfires.  They include 2 daughters (Suzie & Cheryl), 1 step-daughter (Katie), 2 sons (Elias & Tyler), their spouses, the mothers of his children (Darlene, Dinah, Becky & Vicki), 14 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and the best friends a guy could ask for (Bob, Jan & Mike).

More about Robert: Served as an Army scrub-tech in Korea, was a surfer in Southern California, forest-fire fighter in the Sierras, hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, alone, twice, was an addictions counselor in Alaska, and was a house carpenter and woodworker.

At 68, he found himself with paraplegia and in a power wheelchair.  Undaunted, he lived his last 15 years alone on his 5 acres in the woods, making hand-cut-dovetail boxes, carved spoons, and lathe-turned bowls.

His friends, neighbors and family will remember Bob as an inspiration in self-sufficiency, calm, mindful living and generosity.  He never sold any of his woodwork, just gave it all away.

The family would like to thank the caring folks at the VA and ET York Hospice Care Center who provided him with wonderful care until he was ready to move on.