April 19, 1921- December 23, 2024

Leo J. Thoennes of Federal Way, WA, passed away December 23, 2024. He was 103 at the time of his passing. Leo was predeceased by his wife of sixty-four years, LaVerne Thoennes. He is survived by his brother, Nicholas and six children: Sandra Smith, Patricia Thoennes, Cathy Journey, John Thoennes, Mary Kretzschmar, and Nancy Henderson. In addition he leaves behind nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. Leo was the last surviving officer of the 104 Division of the U S Army, 555 Anti Aircraft Artillery Battalion. He survived 195 days in combat without a scratch which led him to credit luck with his longevity. He will be missed by all who knew him especially his friends at the Village Green where he lived for the last 10 years. He loved sharing stories and winning Bingo. He wrote many letters to the editor of the Federal Way Mirror and other publications detailing accounts of his WWII service. Burial services are being handled by Bonney Watson. The funeral is January 13, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Vincent de Paul church, Federal Way, followed by burial at Tahoma Memorial Cemetery.