One of Marysville’s finest citizens, F. Leon “Le” Herron, Jr., died last Friday at the age of 101.
He was CEO and President of O. M. Scott and Sons for many years until his retirement in 1983, but continued his commitment and service to the community well after that. His love for his country, family, church and fellow man was demonstrated throughout his entire life. He served his country during World War II with the Army Corps of Engineers in the Pacific Theater and volunteered countless hours with his service on several boards and agencies in Marysville and Union County and by helping and advising local residents and others.
I got to know him well while serving with him on the Union County Foundation Board and my admiration of him never waned. I would see him from time to time at gatherings, at the post office or at other places and he would often comment on something he liked in the Journal-Tribune.
About 45 years ago, I was invited with several others to a luncheon and tour of the then new Scotts office building. I wrote a short thank you letter to Le which he must have filed away because three years ago he sent me the following note: “Dan, Came across this letter in an old file. Thought you would like to see it. I followed your advice and wrote a book and also gave talks. It is always good to see you. Best regards, Le”
In my letter, I thanked him for the lunch and tour, but added the following:
“I appreciate most, however, the opportunity to talk with you on such a frank basis. I wish I could start each week with an hour-long chat with you. Not only are you interesting, but also motivating.
It wouldn’t surprise me to see you after retirement either write a book or give talks on the subject of business motivation. I certainly hate to see you sever ties with Scotts. Marysville will be lesser without you at the helm of the company. But, I wish you well. Sincerely, Dan Behrens.”
Little did I know at that time that Le’s dedication to Marysville and Union County would continue long after his retirement … more than 40 years after!
It was my good fortune to have known him. I offer my condolences to his family, other friends, and Scotts associates who had the privilege of working with him.