Joseph Leather, a long time Piedmont resident, passed away on March 14, 2026, in his home with his family by his side.
He is survived by his wife, Wilma, and daughters, Carol Stellman and husband Robert; Linda Collett and husband David. Five grandchildren Marie Stellman, Diana Stellman, Bradford Collett, Nathaniel Collett, Brenton Collett and four wonderful great grandchildren, Charlie Collett, Oliver Collett, Henry Collett and Liam Collett.
Joe was born in Ecorse, Michigan on August 4, 1932. He enlisted in the Navy following graduation from high school and was stationed on the USS Philippine Sea and USS Hornet during the Korean War. While in the Navy he met his future wife on a blind date. They married on February 9, 1957, and shared 69 years together.
Following his discharge from the Navy in 1956, Joe began working for United Airlines at the San Francisco Maintenance base. He began as a mechanic and went on to become an inspector and later supervisor in the engine shop. He enjoyed his work at United and dedicated 39 years to the company.
Wilma and Joe visited the UK multiple times and traveled all around Europe and Japan as they visited their daughter and son-in-law who lived in multiple locations. When the USS Hornet was brought to Alameda to be restored, he immediately volunteered. He worked with the Duct crew repairing areas throughout the ship. As the ship opened to the public, he became a docent. He enjoyed giving tours and meeting people from different locations. Having served on the USS Hornet, the ship became his second home for 25 years. Working with other volunteers, he took great pride in bringing the ship back to life. He served on the Docent Board and contributed many hours to special
events. He loved his ship and was proud of the role he played in preserving an important part of our history.
Joe loved the outdoors and in the last few years he became an avid bird watcher. He enjoyed watching the birds build a nest in his bird house. He was quite excited about the eagles nesting in the cemetery.
He belonged to the Oakland Casting Club, Veterans of Foreign Wars and United Retiree group. He loved fishing and tying flies.
A military grave side service was held on March 20, 2026, in Mountain View Cemetery. In place of flowers, he preferred memorial gifts to the USS Hornet Museum, P.O. Box 460; Alameda, CA 94501