Redlands, Ca - Leon Hines Armantrout passed away peacefully in Redlands, California on December 15, 2025 at the age of 91. He was born on August 2, 1934 in Scott County, Kansas to Raymond Armantrout and Hildred Armantrout (Hines). Leon's early life on the family farm instilled in him a lifelong love of animals, the land, and hard work. He attended Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas and earned a B.S. in Architecture. Leon was deeply involved in campus life: He played the cornet in the band, participated in theater productions, leadership organizations, and architectural clubs. Leon met his future wife, Margie Jane Lemon in the university library. Leon and Margie married in an evening ceremony at the First Congregational Church in Redlands on May 28, 1960.

He is survived by their three children Julie Kay (Armantrout) Kasarjian, Jeffrey Kent Armantrout, and Jami Kathryn (Armantrout) Spencer, daughter-in-law Tawney (Schmitt) Armantrout, and son-in-law Kevin Spencer. Leon is also survived by four grandchildren: Elaine Mary Alice Spencer, Logan Kevin Spencer, Jane Rae Armantrout, and Will David Armantrout, two nieces Pam Nolan and Lisa Nolan and her three children, Erin, Samara and Thomas. Leon was preceded in death by his wife, Margie Jane Armantrout, who passed on June 8, 2018, his older brother George Washington Armantrout, and his niece Cindy Armantrout.

His love of mid century architecture led him to Los Angeles to intern in Richard Neutra's office. Later, he moved to Redlands where he partnered with Clare Day and formed Day and Armantrout Architects. A longtime member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), he earned professional recognition for his thoughtful community-centered mid century modern inspired designs. His works in Redlands included: the ESRI campus, ESRI Café, Redlands First United Methodist Church, Redlands Medical Center, Prospect Park theater, LA-Z-Boy factory, and the YMCA Roy Coble Gymnasium. His architectural work on numerous churches, commercial and residential projects spanned into many other Southern California Cities.

Leon deeply cared for people, education, open space, and the community. He and Margie founded Montessori in Redlands, were founding members of The Redlands Conservancy, and he was a long time member of Rotary Club of Redlands. Leon and Margie were instrumental in the acquisition and preservation of: Prospect Park, Heritage Park, Barton Schoolhouse, Santa Fe Depot, Fox Theater, and the Mitten Building.

Leon, a devoted music lover shared his passion for music with his family. He had a love for Bach, choral music, Cat Stevens, and The Band. He loved animals, especially horses, dogs, and cats. He was famously devoted to "feeding the critters." Leon was also a great admirer of cars. He was known for his unusual right hand drive Honda City collection. His children fondly remember accompanying him to "listen to the engine," of this Lotus, or "coast" down Elm Street in his tiny Honda Coupe.

Leon was known for his warmth, friendliness, gentle humor, and unwavering kindness. Even in his later years, he was quick with a smile, generous with affection, and never missed an opportunity to say "You're doing a good job," or "I love you."

The family is deeply grateful to: the staff at Summerfield, Calstro Hospice, Dr. Tim Mcnaughton, and many more sweet souls for their compassionate care.

Everyone is invited to join them to celebrate his life on Sunday, February 15, 2026 at 2pm at the Redlands First United Methodist Church. Donations can be made to Armantrout Montessori Education Foundation to continue Margie and Leon's work to provide education and support to children and educators in the community. Please visit Armantrout.org or mail checks to AMEF at 200 Nevada Street, Redlands, CA 92373