Lasting Memories
Leslie (Lee) Fremont Harrod
July 3, 1925-March 31, 2012
Menlo Park, California
Leslie "Lee" Fremont Harrod of Menlo Park passed away at home, in the company of his wife, sitting by the fireplace at approximately 8:10 p.m. on Saturday, March 31. He had been released from the hospital the previous day, following complications from pneumonia.
Lee was born on July 3, 1925, in San Diego, Calif., to Leslie Sr. and Loretta Harrod. He had a powerful love for sailing and, following a stint with the Sea Scouts, he enlisted in the Navy. During World War II he served aboard the supply vessel Melville and was stationed in London during the "Little Blitz" in the autumn of 1943.
Following the war, he moved to San Francisco where he met his wife, Betty Lou "Pick" Kemp and became a reporter for the San Francisco Daily News.
Following several years in the newspaper business, Lee received a contractor's license and directed his focus toward home building and remodeling. His business, known as Factotum, served Bay Area homes for over 25 years.
Along with his lifelong passion for boats and sailing, he was a committed conservationist, outdoorsman, scoutmaster (Troop 91, Redwood City), bird watcher and amateur historian.
Lee is survived by his wife of 63 years; his twin sister, Laurel Pietsch (Tony); daughters, Lisa Harrod-Texeira (Don), Leslie Harrod Fish (Jim); son, Paul Kemp Harrod (Joanna); grandchildren, Claire (Matthew), Brooke (David), Max (Carly) and Spencer (Corey). He has three great grandchildren: Sagan, Felix and Isadora.
Arrangements have been made with The Neptune Society to scatter his ashes at sea.
April 21, 2012
Uncle Lee was a deeply compassionate man, and I am ever grateful for the times we had together. His influence on my life was profound - he made me feel special. Thank you, Uncle Lee. I love you always.
April 15, 2012
Thank you for a great memorial page.
April 13, 2012
My heart is with all of you as we remember a wonderful man whose presence on Earth was one of love, humility, kindness and humor. Uncle Lee was my Godfather, and was a true example of quiet dedication and inner peace. He was an early riser, and I remember morning walks before breakfast when we had our June Parties in Sacramento. He loved nature, bird-watching and sitting in the silence. He will always be in my heart. My love for all of you knows no bounds. Maloah
April 13, 2012
We feel overwhelmed with gratitude, along with profound loss. Dad gave us our love of the sea, backpacking in the Sierras, our appreciation of differing perspectives, and our deep gratitude for family and life-long friendships. He will be missed always, but his gifts will also be with us always.
April 12, 2012
Uncle Lee was an adoring father and devoted husband, quietly and gently going about his life with love and integrity. One of my favorite memories of him was when I was about 8 years old and was spending a week (following a June Party) at The Harrod's home. On Saturday morning Uncle Lee fixed eggs "sunny side up" for breakfast. He explained to me how to make them, demonstrating and letting me watch, and I have never forgotten that. I never knew he was a reporter, but I knew he was a loving, kind and wonderful man! We miss you, Uncle Lee, yet carry you with us in our hearts and memories. With Love, Wendy
April 10, 2012
