By Scott Fischbach, President, Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL)

MCCL’s beloved president emeritus, Leo F. LaLonde, died peacefully yesterday afternoon surrounded by his loved ones. We will never forget him and all that he meant to the cause of life—here in Minnesota and far beyond.

Leo joined the pro-life movement in 1971, two years before Roe v. Wade legalized abortion nationwide. He became president of Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life (MCCL) in 1976, a position he faithfully held for 46 years.

Leo’s accomplishments for unborn children and other vulnerable human lives were enormous. During his tenure as president of MCCL, he helped build and expand MCCL’s pro-life educational, legislative, and political programs; grow the pro-life movement across the country through MCCL’s Mission Possible program; advocate for life internationally through MCCL’s Global Outreach program; and reduce abortions by about 50 percent in Minnesota.

Leo also represented Minnesota on the National Right to Life (NRLC) Board of Directors and served as the pro-life director of the Minnesota Knights of Columbus. He worked with MCCL chapters across the state; spoke all throughout Minnesota, in other states, and at national conventions; and used his computer and online expertise on behalf of MCCL and NRLC.

I had the honor to work with Leo for decades. He was a good man. He was faithful all throughout his life. And we are so grateful for him.

Leo, rest in the light and the love of our Creator!

Please keep Leo’s family and friends in your prayers.