Hubert Francis Lein

Bert was born in North Tonawanda New York 'on the kitchen table', to Herbert and Norma Lein on May 2nd, 1927. He left us on February 2nd, 2015.

Bert's greatest gift was a sharp mind and quick wit that he never hesitated to share with anyone he came across during his many active days. He was also extremely loving and generous, especially with his family and circle of close friends.

He grew up on a farm, and enjoyed working on the equipment and machinery. He later used these skills to restore classic cars and maintain and repair the fleet of motorcycles in the Lein household. He was a genius at anything mechanical or electrical. Gardening was another talent he picked up from life on the farm. Bert's tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers were legendary!

He met the love of his life Geri, in Lockport New York. A classic country boy meets city girl tale. They enjoyed 63 years of marital 'bliss', with 2 children and later 4 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild.

After Bert's stint in the Air Force, they moved out west to escape the harsh winters of Western New York eventually settling in South Torrance for 20 years. He received his Bachelors and Masters in English at Cal State Long Beach and became a high school English Teacher at Palos Verdes High School.

Teaching fit Bert like a glove. He really connected with the kids and instantly became a favorite of the students. He didn't fully realize his impact until reconnecting with them on Facebook and being invited to a 40 year High School reunion, where he was universally praised for his funny, memorable, and thoughtful approach. After teaching he became an Administrator in charge of all the instructional materials in the school district. He also moonlighted as a professional sports photographer and taught photography at El Camino College.

Bert's hobbies and interests were extremely numerous and diverse. Listing all of them could easily fill up several pages! At the top of his list without question, would be flying. He was an avid pilot with an Instrument Rating and was the proud owner of a classic V-Tail Bonanza. He also loved traveling in his motorhome. After retirement Bert and Geri resided full-time in the motorhome and toured throughout the US, Canada, and Mexico. They also enjoyed being camp hosts in Big Pine for several summer seasons, before settling in Bishop and putting together one of the finest vegetable gardens around.

After Geri showed early signs of Alzheimers, Bert moved to Seal Beach to be closer to family and healthcare. He spent the last 8 years lovingly caring for Geri, and enjoyed spending lots of time with his kids and grandkids.

He is survived by his wife Geri, son Mike, daughter-in-law Annie, grandchildren Jeff, Chantelle, Derek, Christopher, and great-grandchild Gage. He was predeceased by his daughter Christa.

Memorial Service on Thu, February 12th 2015 @ 3:00 pm, Reception immediately following:

Redeemer Lutheran Church (Leisure World)
13564 St Andrews Dr
Seal Beach, CA 90740