Leslie Strange

Leslie Charles Strange, age 76, of Dallas, formerly of Abilene, went to walk with the Lord on Tuesday, July 9, 2013. Funeral services will be graveside Monday, July 15th, 2013, 10:00 a.m. at Elmwood Memorial Park and Funeral Home, 5750 Hwy 277 South, Abilene.

Leslie was born in Houston, TX on May 25, 1937 to parents Frank Leslie and Gladys Earnest Strange. He graduated from Abilene High, lettering in basketball all 3 years. He attended Hardin Summons University, studying business. Using his business talents, Leslie and his mother operated The Chicken ShackLeslies Fried Chicken. During the 10 years together, Leslie was elected President of the Restaurant Association.

Leslie then went on his own and became a real estate broker, opening Investment Real Estate Co. In 33 years, he built 189 homes he bought over 300 homes which he remodeled, rented, or sold. He also developed a subdivision, South Point, located south of the Abilene Mall, naming several streets after family members. He opened a gift shop in the early 1980s at the Mall called Jennifer Jill.

Quite the ENTREPRENEUR Leslie opened a car business named Wheels, Inc., the first limousine service in Abilene, and Octopus Car Wash. On to the next adventure, he moved to Colorado, bought a ranch, and subdivided for ranchettes. This he named Shangri La. Nine years later, he moved to Denver and worked for Budget Rental. Leslie realized the value of art and frequented Taos and Santa Fe.

Retiring, Leslie moved to Dallas to be close to his daughter. He loved to play chess, do his art work, and loved his cat.

Leslie is preceded in death by his parents brother, Don E. Strange niece, Jill Anderson and aunt, Elizabeth Lewis.

Leslie is survived by his daughter, Carrie Strange of Dallas, TX son, Leslie Biff Strange of Abilene sister, Margaret Ann Brandon and husband Mike Brandon of Abilene sister, Elyse Strange of Plymouth, IL six nephews and two cousins.

Memorials may be made to the Diabetes Association , the American Heart Association , Cancer Society , or to your favorite charity .

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