Leon C. Sterner
April 26, 1949 – Sept. 28, 2023
Leon Charles Sterner, a longtime Yachats resident who was an integral part of the community died Sept. 28, 2023 at his home.
He was born April 26, 1949, in Minneapolis, Minnesota to Carl A. Sterner and Eleanor C. Sterner, accompanied by a twin brother, Al.
He graduated from Roosevelt Senior High School and received a bachelor’s degree in theology from Luther College. While Leon studied to become part of the clergy, he changed course to become a farmer, then a photographer, then a restaurateur and a house painter. He walked a unique path. Leon was adept at capturing beauty through photography, and this remained a lifelong passion.
Leon moved to Yachats in 1984 where he eventually became the manager of the Yachats Commons. Leon was in his element at the Commons helping others plan and throw amazing and joyful events.
Leon is survived by two brothers, Alan Sterner of Delano, Minn. and John Sterner of Colorado Springs, Colo.
A service is pending. Arrangements are being handled by Bateman Funeral Home, Newport.
His family is hosting a celebration of life at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 8 in the multipurpose room of the Yachats Commons with refreshments from the Drift Inn. There will be an open microphone and the chance for friends and community members to speak.
Leon’s family knew that Leon was often at the center of community projects in town and suggest that memorial donations support the city of Yachats Skatepark Expansion Project for which Leon was the original champion. Checks may be sent to P.O. Box 128, Yachats, Ore. 97498 in care of Polly Plumb Productions.
Leon died after a long and debilitating struggle with mental illness. His family asks that anyone struggling with mental illness or suicidal thoughts to call or text 988 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
I am so sorry for this loss to Leon’s friends, family, and community. I loved chatting with him at the Commons. I have missed him. He was always smiling, kind and helpful. May he rest in peace everlasting.
Leon and I were close. We worked together on the Commons, painting, moving furniture, lights and sound. We played games and cooked dinners with our families and friends. His life stories were always captivating. He showed up in many situation offering sound advice with the patience of a diplomat who was quick to see needs and possible solutions. That strong voice of his carried with a heart that gave him his humor and loving content.
Oh, darling Leon, I miss you already! I’m so sorry. I love you.
Ingrid
I worked with Leon at the Commons building back in the day. He was kind, calm and caring all across the board. I found his Minnesota accent comforting, and his down to earth ways a joy to be around. I used to marvel at his ease behind the microphone in front of the crowds at the Commons events, introducing people or speaking before an event. He was funny too when he had that microphone in his hand. Another gaping hole in our community, with his passing … but I have been missing him for a couple years now, not seeing him around the city buildings. It was always a treat when I did run in to him the last few years. Thank you Leon for touching all our lives and hearts. You did well, and you are loved.