by Vernon Connie Kollasch, Iowa Chapter Member

I have known Leo for many years. In the 80's I pitched in the IOWA City Horseshoe League. Now many of the pitchers have passed on. I believe Leo was about the last of the great pitchers in the Iowa City area.

When I worked at Sears his brother came from North Dakota to the counter asking in I knew where Leo Buell lived. He did not know that I practice horseshoe at Leo's place. After work he followed me right Leo's house. At the Time Leo and Joan lived near the mall and to this day Joan has not forgotten this event. His brother was so surprised that I knew exactly where he lived.

The IC Horseshoe League was very important to Leo He started the I C Horseshoe League in 1982. Nearly every year He had a new pitcher for our league. Sometimes he needed a pitcher or another team was short a pitcher. Some of our pitcher today Leo first introduce to the IC League.

Leo won his first trophy in 1965. In 2005 he received the IHHPA Hall of Fame. In 2007 he received the IHHPA Frank Jackson award. Leo's best finish at the Iowa State Fair was runner-up in 2008 40' Men's Championship. I lost to Leo on the last pitch and placed 3rd.

The IC pitchers traveled together to many Tournaments in Iowa and the IOWA State Fair. Leo attended many World Tournaments and Team World events. He attended 10 World Tournaments

Leo was the IOWA director for the NHPA for 20 years. He attended World Tournaments and as director he did the shoe check As many pitchers know at the World Tournament every pitcher has their shoes checked before pitching, attending these tournaments Leo met many pitchers across the US and Canada. Here even in Arizona over the years people ask me if I know Leo Buell. Leo had many friends he met pitching Horseshoes. Leo received the Regional Director award from the NHPA in 2010. Leo averaged over 50 % ringers for over 20 years.

Leo and Joan travelling together and Leo pitching was very important to them for over 50 years.