William “Bill” Edwin Leslie

Bill had a long career teaching Mathematics and Computer Science at the high school and collegiate level. He retired from SUNY Fredonia for the first time in 2000, but quickly returned to work as an adjunct professor in the business department. During his early retirement years, he answered the call that God had placed in his heart during high school and started on the path to becoming an ordained minister.

In 2008, he was ordained at the Harvest Chapel Free Methodist Church in Fredonia. From there he was blessed with being appointed as a Chaplain in Hospice Chautauqua County, serving the people of Northern Chautauqua County during their difficult times. His compassionate and gentle spirit was a great help to families facing the loss of a loved one.

Bill was happiest when serving others and living out the challenges of Matthew 25. He was instrumental in forming a group of volunteers who served at Gowanda Correctional Facility, bring the message of God’s love and forgiveness. His commitment to serve the less fortunate in the region resulted in forming the ministry that helps support and serve meals at the Friendly Kitchen.

His strong ties to the recovery ministry resulted in bringing several self-help programs to his church. He was also a grateful friend of Bill W.

Bill was a gifted athlete whose determination and dedication resulted in his receiving several all-star awards. His awards include being elected Outstanding Senior Athlete, two all-state teams, and co-captain. In 1993, he was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame at SUNY Fredonia.

Bill is survived by children: Christopher Leslie and Kerry (Jim) Tinger; step-daughter, Gina Rossotto; grandchildren: Evan Tinger, Lucas Tinger, Jamie Pagan, and Briella Rossotto. Bill is also survived by his brother, Richard (Leanne) Leslie; and nephews: Ryan, Keith, and Eric. Bill was predeceased by: his parents, brother, James Leslie, and sister, Susan (Leslie) Blake. Visitation will be held at the LARSON-TIMKO Funeral Home, 20 Central Avenue, Fredonia on Thursday July 13, 2023 from 6-8 pm. A Memorial Service will be held at the Harvest Chapel Free Methodist Church, 39 Matteson St., Fredonia on Friday July 14, 2023 at 11am.

We invite you to donate to The Michael J. Fox Foundation (michaeljfox.org) for Parkinson’s Research in his honor, in place of sending flowers. On-line condolences may be made at larsontimkofuneralhome.com. Arrangements by David J. Dengler.