Henry “Leke” M. Olea Jr., born on February 25, 1937, passed away on January 7, 2020. Henry was extremely involved in his community, as he was the founding chair of the UA Local 469 PAC which started in 1991, an elected Business Representative for Local 469 from 1974-2001, a lifelong volunteer and advocate for working families and the Arizona Democratic Party, and much more. He is survived by his children Greg, Steven, Diana (Dale) Trimmer, Donald (Tina) Olea, and Gabe. Grandchildren; Christopher, Stephanie, Samantha, Vanessa, Sean, and Ty. Great grandkids; Nicholas, Isabella, Marisa, and Able. A Visitation will be held at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 2312 E Campbell Ave., in Phoenix, on Thursday, January 16, 2020 at 5:00-6:00 PM. with a Rosary at 6:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will take place at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church on Friday, January 17, 2020 at 10:30 AM, with burial to follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 2033 N 48th St., in Phoenix. All family and friends are invited to join the family for a reception immediately after the burial from 1:00-4:00 PM at the U.A. Local Union #469, 3109 North 24th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85016. The Olea Family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations instead be made to the Boys and Girls Club Alumni: https://bgcmp.org/donate/# Click on “One-time donation” and choose an amount. In the “Tell us why you support” box, type in “Henry Olea”.Enter your information to receive a tax deductible receipt for your donation. Any problems with making a donation can be directed to Donna Martin at 602-954-8182.
Joie Molina
I am very fortunate to have had the great honor of calling this great man a friend. I know that he will truly be missed by everyone that knew him.
Virginia Olea
Cousin Leke,
You will truly be missed by family and friends
Cousin Virginia
Mr. & Mrs. Ruben Gomez
Our deepest condolences going out to the Olea Family . May they be blessed with comfort and understanding . We are deeply sorry . May Henry “Leke”Olea rest in paradise .
Daniel Froetscher
Deepest condolences to the Olea family. May you cherish your memories and find peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Gary T. Jordan
Henry always had a smile on his face and a warm hand shake-he will be missed.
Mark Butler
To the Family of Henry Olea,
“Leke” truly took to heart the words and fulfilled above and beyond the pledge and oath we take when he became a UA Local 469 member over 60 years ago. It states in part: “…I will at all times assist members of the United Association to the extent of my ability, defend them when unjustly treated or slandered, and cultivate for each and every member the warmest friendship and brotherly love. I will assist unfortunate or distressed members to procure employment….”
But Henry took it even further and helped ALL people, whether they were Union or non-union, Democrat or Republican LOL!! GOD BLESS YOU, HENRY, RIP
Fraternally with love, your friend and brother
Mark Butler
Stephanie (Dietzman) Haag
I am so sorry for your loss. May you hearts find comfort and peace in the memories you share and the stories that you tell. Praying for you now and the days to follow.
Deacon Anthony N. (Tony) Beltran
I first met Henry in the early 1950’s. Verde Park was a gathering place for many neighbor kids. He was a life-long
friend. I saw him many times over the years since the Verde Park days. He always had a kind word or gave us a good laugh and friendly advice, He never forgot his roots and always helped when help was needed. Rest in peace “Leke” your good deeds go with you and the gates of heaven will open wide for you.
Donna Martin - Boys & Girls Clubs
Henry will be missed by his Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Phoenix family. His work on behalf of the Phoenix Boy’s Club and later the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Phoenix profoundly impacted many members. His legacy of service continues on through the Phoenix Boy’s Club Alununi Association , which he founded and guided for the past 40+ years. Please know that your family is in our thoughts and prayers during this time of grief.
Evette Ramirez
Cousin Leke,
So very sorry to say goodbye to one of the best! You always showed up for everyone in the hospital to cheer them up, console the family and to make everyone smile. I will miss your teasing personality and your genuine concern and interest in people, their lives and human kindness.
Rest In Peace,
Evette Ramirez and Chris MCCarthy
Vel Pina
I knew Henry (Leke) from school in the late 1950’s, as I did his wife Josefine, I am sorry for your loss, I knew him as a very active person with his community and his union membership, very united with the other unions, especially local 383 during the Soltero Epoca, my condolences to you his family.
Vel Pina