Leon Curtis "FLEETWOOD" Fleets

HIS STORY...

Leon Curtis Fleets, affectionately known as "Fleetwood" was a beloved son, brother, and friend, passed away on May 28, 2025, in Michigan City, Indiana, at the age of 73. Leon was the third of four children born to Robert Fleets Sr. and Mattie Williams Fleets on November 22, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois, 

Leon’s early years were spent in Chicago, where he attended Park Manor Elementary School and played first base on the school’s little league baseball team. After the family relocated to Gary, Indiana, Leon continued his education at Locke Elementary and joined the Terry Town Little League, continuing to showcase his love and talent for the game. He later attended Tolleston High School and graduated from West Side High School in 1970.

From an early age, it was evident that Leon had a servant’s heart. He carried within him a gentle and compassionate spirit that radiated joy. He was known for being a friend to everyone he met—always offering a helping hand, a piece of candy and closing every conversation with a sincere “God Bless You.” Leon’s warmth and kindness were constants in the lives of those who knew him.

Leon briefly worked for Inland Steel before meeting Patricia Cargle, his future wife, in Gary, Indiana. The two shared an immediate bond grounded in faith, kindness, and mutual respect. Leon and "Pat" married in June of 1975, and this June would have marked their 50th wedding anniversary—a beautiful testament to their enduring love and partnership.

After their marriage, Leon and Pat eventually settled in Michigan City, Indiana, where they built a life rooted in service and community.  Leon worked for the local at The Salvation Army, and a local hospital, offering care and comfort in yet another way to those around him. He enjoyed volunteering whenever he could.  

Leon was fond of music; dancing and he was the life of the party. He was deeply passionate about sports, especially baseball and basketball. He loved to talk about the Negro Baseball Leagues, where he could recall detailed statistics, legendary players, and historic teams with encyclopedic accuracy. His love of the game was not just in watching or playing—it was in knowing the stories, the struggles, and the legacy behind the sport.

Leon Curtis Fleets was promoted from Earth to Glory on May 28, 2025 at home. He is preceded in death by his parents, an older sister: Lillian Fleets and nephew: Andre Rashad Williams. 

He is survived by his loving Wife: Patricia Cargle Fleets of Michigan City, IN; Brother: Robert (Willa) Fleets of Gary, IN; Sisters: Francis S. Fleets of Virginia; Gina (Alton) Desadier of Indianapolis, IN; Nephew: Anthony (Shametra) Williams Jr. of Gary, IN; Nieces: Jennifer (Preston Ruby) Fleets of Gary, IN; and Arlette Williams of Indianapolis, IN; also extended relatives, and a host of lifelong friends and community whose lives he deeply touched forever.

Leon’s memory will be cherished by all who knew him. He is remembered not only for his knowledge and humor, but for the joy he brought into everyday moments and the light he carried within him. He was a man of grace, integrity, and unwavering kindness.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
— Matthew 5:16

A Celebration of life will be held on Thursday, June 5, 2025 at 12:00pm at Zion Hill MBC (Location 1), 123 Helen St., Michigan City, Indiana 46360. Visitation will take place from 11:00am until the time of service at the church. Pastor James E. Lane, Jr. will do the Eulogy. Burial to follow at Swan Lake Cemetery.

Burial will take place immediately following the service at Pine Lake Cemetery. 

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