Leo J. Malsom, 82, of Casper, passed away on August 1, 2015 at his home.
He was born on September 6, 1932 in Onaka, SD, the son of Jacob and Margaret (Bosch) Malsom. He was a graduate of Central High School in Aberdeen, SD. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was honorably discharged in December of 1954. While he was there, he formed an award winning jazz band called "The Red Hots" playing for generals and high ranking officials.
Leo was Classified Advertisement Manager for the Casper Star Tribune, retiring in 1994 as Senior Marketing Representative. His musical career followed him wherever he went. In 1958-59 he played with a six piece Dixieland band at the Beacon Club; and in 1960 joined the Lou Math Trio for 12 years playing all the major clubs in and around Casper. In 1976, organized his own band called the L-M Quartet for 14 years; in 1990 Leo renamed his band, Leo's Trio +1 playing mostly music from the big band era. One of Leo's highlighted performances was playing for John Wayne's 50th surprise birthday party at the Blue Ox Supper Club in Casper, WY while Mr. Wayne was filming the movie "Hellfighters". Leo was inducted into the South Dakota Music Hall of Fame on April 23, 1992.
He was a Charter Member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church who was the 1st Choir Director and served in many capacities and ministries, most currently a member of the Music Ministry. Leo's faith was unwavering in every facet of his life. He was also a Life Member of the Casper Elks Lodge #1353.
Leo married Dorothy "Dottie" Gabriel on September 15, 1952 in Ipswich, SD. She preceded him in death on November 17, 2001. Leo is survived by his loving children, Ken Malsom, Casper, Debbie Malsom, Chandler, AZ, Doug (Elva) Malsom, Casper, Cindy (Tom) Anglund, Casper, Jane Malsom-Swenson, Casper, Carol (Jeff) Long, Casper and Steven (Birdy) Malsom, Colorado Springs, CO; seven grandchildren, Leo Dean and Paul Malsom, Heather (Eric) Anglund-Walters, Andrea and Nicole Swenson, Lauren Long and Emily Malsom; a great-grandson, Brayden Anglund-Walters; three sisters, Agnes Binfet, Casper, Dorothy Miller, Clovis, NM and Ann Browning, Austin, TX; and a brother, Pius (Shelley) Malsom, Tucson, AZ; and sister-in-law, Shirley (Allan) Braun, Rapid City, SD.
He was preceded in death by his parents, five sisters and four brothers.
Leo was a loving husband, proud father, and grandfather who was devoted to his wife and family. Leo was a local legend and was known throughout the entire community. Leo was an extremely proud Veteran who displayed his patriotism with honor. He enjoyed the Wyoming Cowboy's in every aspect and was an avid sports fan and cheered for the Kelly Walsh Trojans!
Leo was a very kind, compassionate, loving and sensitive man who was a showman and entertainer at heart who had the "gift of gab" and will be truly missed by many.
In honoring his request, Mr. Malsom was cremated. A rosary will be recited at 6 p.m., Thursday, August 6, 2015 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Casper, Wyoming. A memorial mass will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, August 7, 2015 at the church with Fr. Gary Ruzicka officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Highland Cemetery.
Memorials are suggested to St. Patrick's Catholic Church or charity of the donor's choice.
Newcomer Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family.
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