Leon Thikoll's Obituary
Leon A. Thikoll passed away peacefully on November 10, 2025 at 86 years of age. He was born in Chicago, Illinois in Jefferson Park and was the son of Morris Thikoll and Eva K. Thikoll.
He departed Chicago, Illinois and arrived in Tucson by train with his Mother in November 1946.
In his youth, he was active in AZA and Boy Scouts. After graduating from Tucson High School Leon attended the University of Arizona where he was an active brother in the Tau Delta Phi fraternity. He earned an accounting degree and subsequently a Juris Doctorate from the University of Arizona School of Law.
Leon later served in the Arizona Air National Guard, where he was a marksman, and a scribe and was proud to have served his country.
He became President of Toastmasters, President of a local branch of Civitan International, and sponsored local youth in the Big Brothers program. He had a great love of the English language, and would travel statewide to judge high school debates.
For 62 years, he practiced law in Arizona as a defense attorney. Leon was known for his regular pro bono work, representing underprivileged clients and mentoring young lawyers. He practiced with integrity, compassion, and a fierce commitment to fairness.
Outside of his professional life, Leon was a man of wide-ranging interests and boundless curiosity who always brought energy and humor to gatherings. He was an avid traveler who explored over 100 cities across six continents. At home, he was known for his love of chess, racquetball, poker, UA Wildcat fandom, and hiking in his beloved Catalina mountains. Leon always had friends and family top of mind and would prolifically mail them snail mail letters of musings and/or newspaper clippings.
Leon is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Lois Thikoll, and his loving two sons, David (Allyson Nathan) and Robert Thikoll. He was a proud grandfather to Brandon, Tyler, Rachel, Doren (Alexandra Wibowo), and Taylor—each of whom brought him immense joy and pride. His legacy spans to many nieces and nephews.
Leon’s life was one of purpose, generosity, and love. He was devoted to family, community, and justice. His impact will endure through the many people he mentored, defended, and inspired.
The family asks that those who wish to honor Leon’s legacy make donations to either the Alzheimer’s Association or the Arthritis Foundation.
A memorial service honoring Leon’s life will be held on Friday November 14th, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Congregation Kol Ami Synagogue (225 North Country Club Road, Tucson AZ 85716). Burial will immediately follow the service at Evergreen Mortuary. Meal of condolence will be offered at Congregation Kol Ami Synagogue at 1:00PM.
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