Leo B. Richetta

Leo was born on August 8, 1925 in Stockton, CA to Amadeo & Edith Richetta. Except for the 2+ years he served in the military in World War II, he lived his life of almost 97 years on the ranch that his father homesteaded in Manteca.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 73 years, Nellie; his parents, in-laws & son-in-law Gary Bumgarner.

Leo is survived by his loving family; children , Katheryn Foster, Gayle Bumgarner, Dayle Peterson (Greg) & Richard Richetta (Thierry); grandchildren, Leo (Tammy) & Kim Foster, Heather (Miguel) Medina, Shawn Bumgarner, Desi (Caleb) Walker, Mandi (Lionel) Peterson, Saundi (Mike) Woodall & Josh (Michele) Peterson; great grandchildren, Nate, Haley, Nicole, Matthew, Logan, Payton, Ezra, Violet, Ben, Aribella & Lucas; & great great grandchild, Harper.

Leo attended Manteca High School where he excelled in football, baseball, boxing & track field.

After graduation in 1943, Leo enlisted in the military & fought in WWII. He landed in Normandy five days after D-Day & fought in four major battles, including the Battle of the Bulge. He was awarded 4 medals of honor, including the Purple Heart medal. He was honorably discharged 3/24/1946.

Leo was a very active throughout his life & had many interests. He was a carpenter & farmer. He was a member of the Carpenters Union, American Legion, Elks Lodge, & Big Valley Sam’s RV club. He enjoyed square dancing, golfing, bowling & all sports in general. He loved tending to his horses, trail riding & attending horse shows. He was a very generous person that was always ready to help anyone out. Leo will be dearly missed by all those who loved & cared for him.

Leo will be laid to rest October 6, 2022 at 11:30 with his beloved wife, Nellie, at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery, Santa Nella, CA. A reception will be held afterward at 12:30 at “Pea Soup” Andersen’s Restaurant in Santa Nella. For direct condolences to the family visit Leo’s online tribute page at www.plfryandson.com

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Manteca Historical Society,

600 W. Yosemite Ave., Manteca, CA 95337

Afterglow

I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one.
I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done.
I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways,
Of happy times and laughing times and

bright and sunny days.
I’d like the tears of those who grieve,

 to dry before the sun;
Of happy memories that I leave when life is done

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