Leo George Vander Maelen

Leo George VanderMaelen, 60, of Vermilion, died suddenly on April 3, 2015. He was born on April 5, 1954 in Malden Massachusetts. His family moved to Ohio in 1957 when Leo's father, an employee of Ford Motor Company, took a job at the newly opened Ford Assembly Plant in Lorain. Leo was a 1972 graduate of Vermilion High School where he excelled in track and cross-country, breaking the record for the two-mile run in 1970. After graduation, he worked in the boating industry in Huron and Sandusky Ohio, and then in a number of other states, as a craftsman and supervisor in the manufacture of fiberglass motorboats and sailboats. After many years in this profession, and as his parents became elderly and less able to care for themselves, Leo changed careers for one in which he could work from home while living with and caring for his parents. He moved back to Vermilion, and worked as an independent appraiser of damaged boats for insurance companies until his early retirement approximately 11 years ago. He resided in Vermilion until his death. Leo was known to family, friends and neighbors for his kindness and willingness to help others. He was a loving son and brother, and a proud uncle and grand uncle, known to many as "Uncle Leo." He was deeply loved by all his family and those whose lives he touched. In his leisure time, Leo enjoyed boating, fishing, and NASCAR racing. He is survived by his brother Camiel (Ann) VanderMaelen of Andover, Massachusetts, his sister Ellen VanderMaelen of Berlin Heights, Ohio, his sister Ann Mogor of Lowell, Michigan, his nieces Elizabeth Guschov and Sarah Mogor, his nephews Thomas VanderMaelen and John Mogor, three grand nieces, and a grand nephew. Leo was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Margaret "Peggy" (nee Green) VanderMaelen. The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 9, 2015, from 2:00 pm until time of the service at 4:00 pm at the Riddle Funeral Home, 5345 South Street, Vermilion, OH. The Reverend Father Ron Brickner will officiate. Private inurnment will be in Maple Grove Cemetery, Vermilion. The family suggests memorial contributions to Humane Society of Erie County, 1911 Superior Street, Sandusky, OH 44870 . Online condolences may be made at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.