Leland Carl Cavender's Obituary
Leland Carl Cavender, of Hayward, California, passed away on Tuesday, February 21, 2017 after a year-long and brave battle with cancer. He was born in San Jose, CA to the late Ronald Carl Cavender and Ida Frances DeLuca. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Ethel Cavender, daughter Naomi, son Jeffrey, brother Dean Thomas Cavender, and sister Tracey Ann Cavender. Lee, as he is known to everyone, joined the US Marine Corps at age 17. While in service in 1979, he had a car accident which left him hospitalized for many days. He was badly hurt but with a strong will to live he survived and was given a second chance at 19 years old, then he was put under medical retirement. Lee met his wife, Ethel, while working at Presidio of San Francisco in 1985. His passion was electronics so he decided to go back to school in his early 30’s to get his AS in Electronics Technology and then worked for many years at Linear Technology and Maxim. He also worked in human resources and security. In early 2000’s he went back again to school to finish his BS in Technical Management and finally earning an MBA in Project Management, in his mid-40’s.Lee enjoyed traveling, camping, fishing, watching football and basketball (49ers and Warriors fan), going to rifle range with son, Jeffrey, and cousin Tim. He was also very interested in military history and survival programs. He was a constant presence in Jeffrey’s football practices and games and Naomi’s band concerts. Most of all he cherished spending time with his family and friends. He never missed the annual family reunions.Lee was a man of honor and integrity. He will be remembered by his family for his kindness and loyalty and will miss him dearly. Lee’s greatest pride and joy were his two great kids, and his dogs, Bidwell and Bella.
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