Leon Anthony Maras Obituary (2024)

Leon Anthony Maras, aged 70, of Selah, Washington, passed away at home, on August 7, 2024. Born on December 7, 1953, in Roslyn, Washington, to Joseph & Velma (Simon) Maras, Leon was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather known for his warmth, kindness, sense of humor, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. Lee graduated from Cle Elum High School in 1972, excelling in football and basketball for the Warriors. "Leapin' Leon" proudly held the Kittitas County rebounding record for years. As legend has it, Leapin' Leon was rumored to have once kicked the net, and proudly displayed the scar on his forearm from grazing the rim. After high school, Lee worked as a Wildland Fire Fighter. He truly loved this time in his life. He knew the name of every type of tree and bragged about his vast knowledge of dendrology. On March 16, 1974, Lee married Sharon Hymas, the girl that gave his kindergarten graduation speech. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree in special education (with great help from Sharon). He furthered his education with a master's degree in special education from the University of Oregon, and an Administrative Credential from Central Washington University. As a champion for children's rights, Lee firmly believed that every child deserved the opportunity to fulfill their potential. His dedication to this cause was recognized through numerous accolades, including the Yakima School District Crystal Apple Award and recognition as a Regional Distinguished Principal by the Elementary School Principal's Association of Washington. Lee's career in education spanned 41 years. He took his first teaching position in Sweet Home, Oregon. As soon as the superintendent showed him the salmon stacked up in the Santiam River, he was hooked! Lee worked as a Behavior Consultant for ESD 105, an Adjunct Professor for CWU, and Heritage University, in their educational department, before moving his family back home to Lake Cle Elum in 1987. He became the Principal of Walter Strom Middle School. He was also Principal of the high school, before moving to Yakima in 2002 to take on Davis High School. This became the highlight of his professional career. He loved the kids, the staff, and the community. A great success story was when he was brought into Adams Elementary School on a grant to improve student achievement. Scores significantly improved, and Adams became a model for the state to follow. Most of all, Lee loved the kids, no matter their ages or challenges. The harder the kid, the harder he loved. Outside of his professional achievements, Leon had a deep passion for the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, berry and mushroom picking, and was an avid basketball fan. Lee was known for never missing a game and took immense joy in watching and following his children and grandchildren in their sports activities. He is survived by his loving wife, Sharon Maras; his daughters, Amber Maras (Billy) and Karissa Wilson (Tom); and his son, Seth Maras. Lee was also a proud grandfather to Spencer and Ashley Jolley, Jordyn Jolley, Camryn Birch, Peyton Birch, Londyn Maras, Jaxon Maras, and Bryton and Briar Wilson. Lee's legacy will be remembered through his contributions to education, his love for his family, and his zest for life's simple pleasures. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at 10:00am at the LDS Stake Center (702 North 1st Street, Selah). Immediately following the service, there will be a reception at River Ridge Golf Course (295 Golf Course Road, Selah), from 12:00-2:30pm. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor and remember Lee's life and the profound impact he had on those around him. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Parkinson's foundation in Leon's memory, reflecting his commitment to develop a cure or ease suffering. Memorial contributions may be sent in care of Brookside Funeral Home (PO Box 1267, Moxee, WA 98935), who is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com. See you soon, Dad...good fishing.