Obituary of Leslie Francis Bidleman

His Legacy… Leslie Francis Bidleman was born on January 29, 1947 in Woodland, California to Leslie W. and Mary E. Bidleman. Les lived his entire life in Oroville, California. He graduated from Oroville Union High School and California State University, Chico, before enlisting in the U.S. Army, serving his country during the Viet Nam War. Thereafter, he returned to Oroville and continued his higher education. Les worked for the Oroville Mercury Register from his high school years after school and during his college years at CSUC. He later worked at the Mercury and wrote occasional columns covering the local drag racing scene before moving on to automobile sales. Les loved all things related to cars, from his work for 20 years at Hobbie Chevrolet, Cadillac, Toyota, in Oroville to his final 21 years at Used Car Manager working with the Geweke family at Larry Geweke Ford, Kia in Yuba City. Les took great pride in the fact that he was still working for the dealership up to the day of his passing and that he never “retired”. He, along with his great friend, Dave Enget, restored and built several classic cars, with his first love being muscle cars and drag racing. Les loved taking his cars to car shows and enjoyed the camaraderie with other car owners. Les took great pride when he and Dave won many awards for their loving restorations.

His Family… Les is survived by Naomi Bidleman, his wife of 38 years. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Bill J. Evans, of Fairfax, Virginia.

His Farewell Service… His Memorial Service will be held on Friday, August 2, 2019 at 9:00 AM at Memorial Park Cemetery, 5646 Lincoln Blvd Oroville, CA. A light brunch will be held at the Oroville Nazarene Church Fellowship Hall, 2238 Monte Vista Ave immediately following service. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to The Geweke Family Caring for Women Foundation, payable to “Pink October” 871 East Onstott Rd. Yuba City, CA 95991.

Arrangements are entrusted to Ramsey Funeral Home 530-534-3877.