Leo Ray Tolle, a man of strong spirit and unwavering dedication, completed his earthly journey on August 18, 2023, in Shattuck, Oklahoma at the age of 82 years, 4 months, and 20 days. Born on March 29, 1941, in Ellis County, Oklahoma, Leo was the cherished son of William Henry and Cecil Rebecca (Gillilan) Tolle. Leo's formative years were spent on his father's broom corn farm outside of Arnett, Oklahoma. He absorbed the values of hard work, integrity, and community that would shape his life's path. His education flourished within the halls of Arnett Public School, where he laid the foundation for a lifetime of learning.

As he ventured into adulthood, Leo's quest for experience led him to Kansas and eventually South Dakota, where he spent a notable period breaking horses. It was in Mooreland, Oklahoma, that he was joined in matrimony with Lois Ilene Sample on August 19, 1962, at the Methodist church. Together, they nurtured a love that would span nearly sixty-one years.

From this union came three blessings: Darwan Ray, Melissa Ilene, and Earnest Wayne. The family's journey took them to various corners, from Wichita, Kansas to Freedom, Oklahoma, Coldwater, Kansas, Woodward, Oklahoma, Choctaw, Oklahoma and Moore, Oklahoma before making Arnett, Oklahoma their permanent home. Through each transition, Leo's adaptability and steadfastness was unwavering.

Leo was a man who wore many hats throughout his working years. He labored as a hired hand for farmers, managed a gas station, and distinguished himself as a skilled truck driver, beginning with Star Manufacturing. His driving prowess earned him recognition, including being named Truck Driver of the Year while working at Farmers Supply in Cheyenne, Oklahoma. He enjoyed  square dancing and was a member of the Oklahoma City Swinging Rebels square dance club.  He had a love for the written word, indulging in Western books and embracing the intellectual challenge of puzzle books.

Leo was baptized in the Christian faith, he never met a stranger and was always willing to help anyone he could.

Leo was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter-in-law Rae Lynn Tolle, a grandson Dale Wesley Manual Jr., his dear friend and running buddy Roger Nix, and other loved ones. His memory will be cherished by his beloved wife, Lois Tolle of Arnett, Oklahoma, his children Darwan Ray Tolle of Arnett, Oklahoma, Melissa Ilene Horn and her husband Tim of Odessa, Missouri, and Earnest Wayne Tolle and his wife Debbie of Waurika, Oklahoma.

Leo's memory is also carried by his siblings: William Tolle and Vernal Tolle both of Rapid City, South Dakota, Kenneth Tolle of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Irvin Tolle of Gage, Oklahoma, and his younger twin sister, Leota (Tolle) Cinnamon of Buena Vista, Colorado. His legacy extends through eleven grandchildren, twenty-three great-grandchildren, and eight great-great-grandchildren. Additionally, he leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and a vast circle of friends, each touched by his genuine warmth and boundless spirit.

Memorials may be made to the:

Arnett Senior Citizens

c/o Shaw Funeral Home

PO Box 276

Vici, OK 73859