Leon “Lonny” Oswalt (Cave Junction ’65)
Posted: September 04, 2026
Lonny died at home in Milwaukie, OR, on August 12, 2026. He was born in Eugene, OR, on May 13, 1946, to Laura and Alfred Oswalt.
Lonny was an Eagle Scout, a Peace Corps volunteer, and a smokejumper who worked out of the Cave Junction base. Lonny jumped seven seasons: 1965-68 and 1970-72.
He was a graduate of the University of Oregon and had a long career in human resources, primarily focused on safety and risk management.
He loved to travel and cook, and he read many different newspapers. Often there was a dog or cat, or both, by his side. He enjoyed sending random gifts to friends based on overheard conversations. He was also a generous patron of Mainspring Portland, a community food and clothing pantry in Portland, OR.
As his mobility declined in recent years, he stayed connected by texting family and friends with questions inspired by what he was reading or watching. Thank you to everyone who responded and kept the conversation going.
Lonny is survived by his wife, Jeri, and a large, loving extended family.
