Leo John Koerkenmeier's Obituary
Leo John Koerkenmeier, 94, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force, passed away peacefully last week at the age of 94. He leaves behind his beloved wife, LuDelle, five daughters, twelve grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren.
Leo was born May 11, 1931, in Tipton, Missouri. One of five children, he was the son of Henry John Koerkenmeier and Regina C. Hunthausen.
A 1956 graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Leo’s path to a life of service and adventure began in Annapolis — and so did his greatest partnership. It was there that he met Lula Zadelle (nee Farmer), known as LuDelle, the love of his life. He married her in the Old Post Chapel in Fort Myer, Virginia, just after graduation. The two lovebirds built a beautiful and enduring life together, grounded in love, faith, and family.
In the first 10 years of their marriage, they welcomed five daughters: Cheryl, Regina, Pamela, Angela, and Sandra.
After the Naval Academy, Leo began pilot training and embarked on a distinguished 30-year military career in the Air Force. He flew many missions over the years in C-18's and C-130's.
He earned a master’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology, and served in numerous strategic roles during multiple assignments, including nuclear effects studies and missile systems planning, as well as reentry system hardening and underground nuclear test development.
Leo’s Vietnam service included tours as a Forward Air Controller in Thailand and missions out of Okinawa in C-130s. After Vietnam, he attended Air Command and Staff College, then went on to serve more than eight years at the Pentagon, working at the highest levels of Air Force strategic missile planning and testifying before Congress.
During his military career, Leo earned many medals and honors, including the prestigious Distinguished Flying Cross.
After retiring from the Air Force in 1979, Leo entered the private sector, taking on leadership roles at TRW, Boeing, and Rockwell International. His work in energy innovation, defense planning, and battlefield technology spanned another 17 years. He retired for good in 1996.
As much as Leo excelled in his professional life, he embraced retirement with equal passion. He and LuDelle traveled the country in their motor home, spent time boating from their condo in Solomons, Maryland, and enjoyed cruises, family reunions, and time with friends across the country and abroad. Summer days at the backyard pool, with Leo often at the barbeque, are cherished memories of the kids and grandkids.
When he became a grandfather, Leo was affectionately known as “Dad Dad,” a name that stuck and reflected the warmth and presence he brought to his growing family. He will be remembered for his sharp intellect, warm humor, deep patriotism, and unwavering devotion to his loved ones. Leo lived a full and vibrant life, leaving a legacy of service, integrity, and joy.
A service will be held at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church at 10:30 a.m. on August 4th at 21370 St. Theresa Lane, Ashburn, VA 20147.
Following the service, a celebration of life will take place at Parallel's, 43145 Broadlands Center Plaza, Ashburn, VA 20148.
Graveside services will be held at Arlington National Cemetery on November 20, 2025 at 3 pm.
In lieu of flowers, any desired contributions can be made to Wounded Warriors or any charity of your choice.
Share condolences with the family www.LoudounFuneralChapel.com
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