Leslie "Les" Adams passed away peacefully on May 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 1, 1928, in McMillin, Washington, to Johanna Jahnig and August Adams, both immigrants who instilled in him the values of hard work, education, and service.

Les grew up on a small berry farm and later attended Washington State University, where he pledged the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity. After one year of college, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served two years of active duty, followed by service in the Air Force Reserves. He retired with the rank of Major in 1972.

While attending WSU, Les met the love of his life, Gerry Tiedeman. They were married on July 1, 1950, and together built a life rooted in love, family, and service. In 1952, the couple settled permanently in Kennewick, Washington, where they raised five daughters on the Adams Place family farm. However, the farm was just a way of living for Les.

Les began his professional career in education in Zillah before accepting a teaching position in agriculture at Kennewick High School. He is fondly remembered as a dedicated Future Farmers of America (FFA) advisor who guided numerous students through farm development projects and county fair events. An advocate for vocational education, Les believed deeply in the value of hands-on learning and lifelong development. He continued his own education, ultimately earning a Ph.D. in 1979.

Les's impact on the Kennewick School District was profound. He served as the District Vocational Director, where his leadership was instrumental in securing funding and overseeing the development and opening of the Tri-Tech Skills Center. His decades-long career helped shape multiple generations of students, and his legacy endures through the countless lives and careers he helped launch.

Les is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 75 years, Gerry, and their daughters Wendy, Lanette, Dawn (Erick), Trudi (Brian), and son-in-law Tony. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren James (Kendra), Heather (Roy), Lisa (Travis), Jaren, Bryant, Shalane (Jamie), Landon, Derick (Lang), Jordan, Brandon, Zachary, Breanna, and Tyler; and great-grandchildren Casey, Levi, Isaac, Jackson, Madison, Finley, Lillian, Cora, Camdon, Langston, and Lionel.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Holly, granddaughter Leslie, and brothers Bill, Al, and Werner.

Les lived a full and meaningful life—an example of dedication, perseverance, and purpose. His wisdom, generosity, and humor touched everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In honor of Les's enduring commitment to education and student opportunity, memorial contributions may be made to the FFA or Tri-Tech Foundation.

Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at Mueller's Tri-Cities Funeral Home, 1401 S. Union St., Kennewick.

Tri-Tech Foundation

c/o Tri-Tech Skills Center

5929 W. Metaline Ave.

Kennewick, WA 99336.

Kennewick High School

FFA (on memo line)

560 W. 6th Ave.

Kennewick, WA 99336

Online donations: paypal.com/US/fundraiser/charity/4931360