Leo James Farrell's Obituary
Leo James Farrell, a devoted husband, beloved father, proud veteran, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 4, 2025, at the age of 85.
Born on July 22, 1940, in Ft Madison, Iowa, Leo was raised in the close-knit farming community of Montrose, Iowa. The youngest son in a lively household of nine children, he grew up surrounded by the love and guidance of his older brothers Charlie and Frank, sisters Evelyn, Mary, Rose, and Dorothy, and his younger sister Colleen.
Leo was an exceptional student, graduating as Valedictorian of Montrose High School’s Class of 1958. He pursued higher education with the same determination, earning his bachelor’s degree in just three years at St. Ambrose University in Iowa. In 1962, he commissioned as an officer in the United States Air Force, beginning a distinguished 20-year military career that would take him around the world.
While stationed in Italy, Leo met the love of his life, Sharlowe Mae Welch. They were married on August 26, 1969, in the picturesque city of Lugano, Switzerland. Together, they built a life filled with purpose, service, adventure, and deep love. They raised two children, John Thomas Farrell and Erin Kathleen Farrell-Baginski, who were the pride of Leo’s life.
During his time in the Air Force, Leo also earned a master’s degree in public administration from Oklahoma State University and an MBA from the University of Dayton. He retired with honor and distinction as a Major in 1982. Following his military retirement, Leo and Shar made their home in Southern California, where Leo continued to serve in a civilian capacity—first with General Dynamics as a contract supervisor, and later with the Sup Ship office until his final retirement in 2002.
Retirement brought Leo and Shar the opportunity to explore the world together, often wintering in their favorite place—Hawaii. Leo was a man of simple joys: family dinners, traveling, laughter, and his favorite Burger King Whopper Jr. and fries with chocolate cake and ice cream on his birthday. He was able to enjoy one last celebration with his loved ones just days before his passing.
Leo’s legacy lives on through his wife of 56 years, Shar; his children, John and Erin; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his three surviving sisters. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, unwavering integrity, sharp intellect, and deep love for his family.
A life well lived, a man deeply loved—Leo James Farrell will be missed but never forgotten.
In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate donations to either the ALS association San Diego Chapter or Alzheimer’s Association
Please join us as we gather in love and remembrance of
Leo James Farrell
on Friday, August 22nd at 12:30 PM,
following the service at Miramar National Cemetery.
A lunch will be provided as we share stories, memories, and honor a life well-lived.
Location:
Woodland Village Apartments – Great Room off the Lobby
975 Woodland Parkway
San Marcos, CA 92069
Additional Parking:
Available in the CVS parking lot next to the complex.
What’s your fondest memory of Leo?
What’s a lesson you learned from Leo?
Share a story where Leo's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Leo you’ll never forget.
How did Leo make you smile?
