BORN

1968

DIED

2017

FUNERAL HOME

Geo. H. Lewis & Sons Funeral Directors

1010 Bering Drive

Houston, Texas

Leah Oberlin Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on May 5, 2017.

Leah Ann Oberlin, of Houston, passed away on Friday, the 5th of May 2017, after a four month long battle with cancer.

She was born on the 27th of August 1968, in Queens, New York. She later moved to Galveston, Texas with her mother, where she gave life to her first born child, Nick. She graduated from Galveston College in 1993, Texas A&M Galveston in 1996 and met her husband Erik. Upon graduation, she moved to Indiana to pursue her M.S. Degree in Environmental Engineering at Notre Dame University and graduated in 1999. Meanwhile, in 1998 she married Erik Oberlin in New Buffalo, Michigan. After graduation, they relocated to Palm Beach County, Florida, where Leah briefly taught seventh-grade science and gave birth to her second child, Claire. At this point, Leah began her career in the environmental field starting at The Florida Department of Environmental Protection where she worked for approximately a year and half. She then transitioned over to The South Florida Water Management District briefly, which was a stepping stone into her career at the Army Corp of Engineers. She worked diligently for nine years at the ACOE and was ultimately promoted into the most senior position, Section Chief of South Florida District. In 2013, the family moved to Houston, where Leah began working at HNTB as the Environmental Planning Manager. In 2015, she made her final transition to the Port of Houston, where she assumed the role of Director of Environmental Affairs.

Leah is survived by her husband, Erik Oberlin; son, David Warren; daughter, Claire Isabelle Oberlin; mother, Toni Enriquez; step-father, James Musgrove; father, Gilbert Noble; step-mother, Bonnie Noble; brothers, Robert Paeschke and Kevin Noble; sister, Danielle Noble and daughter-in-law, Amanda Warren.

A memorial service is to be conducted at one o'clock in the afternoon, on Saturday the 13th of May 2017, in the Jasek chapel of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston. Immediately following, guest are invited to greet the family during a reception in the adjacent Grand Foyer.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be directed to the Galveston Bay Foundation, 1100 Hercules Ave #200, Houston, TX 77058.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Leah Oberlin

Sponsored by Geo. H. Lewis & Sons Funeral Directors.

What is your first memory of Leah?

Share a favorite memory you have of Leah.

Tell us about a special moment you shared with Leah.

Describe a time when Leah made you laugh or smile.

What is something you will always remember about Leah?

Talk about a shared experience you had with Leah.

What is something you did together that you enjoyed?

Describe a place or activity that reminds you of Leah.

Tell us about a personal story or anecdote involving Leah.

What is something you learned from Leah?

Not sure what to say?

October 12, 2017

Cecilia Chin-Palles

We are saddened to learn of Leah's fight against cancer and her subsequent passing. Although we haven't been neighbors for several years, we have missed her quick wit and humor. She was always such a pistol and she had such a zest for life. Erik, Nick, and Claire, please know that we will keep you in our thoughts and prayers and hope that memories of Leah provide you comfort. ~The Palles Family (Aldo, Cecilia, Alex, and Christina)

May 29, 2017

Leah, Leah, Leah. You will be forever in our heart. Your love of life, your thirst of knowledge, and your positive outlook has always been and remain an inspiration to us all. You will enternally live on in the lives of those you have touched. We have honored your life with a star in the constellation Cassiopeia (known for everlasting beauty) as "The Star of Leah". Your light will shine as bright as the stars in the sky. The official paperwork will be mailed to the house for Erik and Claire. We love you so very dearly and your spirit will live in our hearts.
Love, Brenda, Sammy, and CJ.

May 26, 2017

Coworker

David Stites

As an environmental consultant, I knew Leah professionally, got to know her personally during her USACE years, and kept in contact after she moved to Houston. I will miss her. I am sure those close to her will miss her more.

May 15, 2017

Margaret Hall

Leah, it is our loss at the Port to not see all your plans and dreams unfold. You were such a positive force and although I knew you only briefly, you touched me and inspired me. Your spirit lives on. My deepest sympathies to your family.

May 14, 2017

Family

Amanda Warren

Beautiful Leah, the past four months have been so surreal. Thank you for allowing me to be not only a part of your life but for family. For welcoming me with open arms. Thank you for all of the wonderful memories and most inportantly raising the man of my dreams. We love you, Leah. Forever.

May 13, 2017

Hilary Greever

My dearest Leah, there are no words to describe the deep loss felt by myself and all who knew and loved you. You inspired me to be a better me, as a woman, as a mother, as a friend. You showed me that there is always hope, and to never lose faith in tomorrow. Lily Bell is very sad, too, for you touched her life greatly, as well. We will love you and miss you forever. Rest in God's hands until we meet again. My love and prayers to Erik, Claire, Nick, Amanda, and your entire family. We were blessed to have Leah in our lives.

May 13, 2017

Anne Dunning

Leah, I am missing your memorial today due to an eye injury, but I admit that even if I could attend, I would not know my place in your realm and at your service. My entire relationship with you consisted of 3.5 lunches, 2 hallway interactions, 1 chat in your office, and a carpool. Our brief interactions only merited a footnote in the chapter you wrote with your life, yet you impacted me.

I met you at an interview lunch. After a morning speaking with men of important power and character, I felt an instant easy rapport with you. I felt the rare sensation that I had found an accomplished peer with whom I could form a like-minded partnership based on similar values and mindsets. I suspect you felt the same because our subsequent conversations included progressively greater confidences, growing trust, and increasingly tangible plans at the intersection of our fields. Everything about you spoke to me of bright future, potential that would be realized, mutual support, and fun.

I cannot say I feel robbed of that bright future because I deeply believe natural deaths occur according to natural order. Perhaps your role in my life was merely to inspire and expand my vision of future possibilities, and perhaps my role in yours was simply intended to assure you that someone like-minded could be in place as you departed.

When news of your passing broke, the tsunami of shock and pain was tangible, yet I have to smile. Your spirit has such force of nature to generate that energy, and after the shock, your legacy will leave love, loyalty, and dedication to high ideals.

Thank you for the opportunity to know you. Thank you for putting so much meaning into 3.5 lunches, 2 hallway interactions, 1 chat in your office, and a carpool.

May 13, 2017

Mary Lyford

I met Leah when she lived in Abacoa near my daughter, Hilary Greever. They soon became fast friends. When I would visit Hilary, I would spend time with her and Leah. We had lots of fun listening to music and drinking red wine. I will have pleasant memories always of Leah and her infectious smile. Rest In Peace , dear Leah.

May 13, 2017

Coworker

Bobby Oberlechner

I, like so many others on here, will miss you sorely. You are a kind soul and a gentle spirit. I am a better person for having known you. Rest in Peace dear friend.

May 13, 2017

John Fellows

When Leah spoke, people listened, because she usually had the right answer, and even if she didn't, she had an important piece of that answer. Or she'd make you laugh and feel better anyways. Thank you, Leah. Thoughts and prayers to your family and friends.

Posted by John Fellows

May 13, 2017

Christophe Oberlin

Une pensée bien veillante pour Leah...

May 13, 2017

Dominique Oberlin

en ce jour où la famille et les amis se réunissent pour accompagner Leah vers la lumiere, mes pensées naviguent vers ce beau pays d'Amérique et que mon amour familiale vous entoure et vous apporte l'énergie nécessaire pour continuer vos chemins
je garde l'image de Leah resplendissante lors d'un sejour à Parnes et je prie pour elle .
je vous embrasse
Dominique Oberlin

May 13, 2017

Valérie et christophe Oberlin

Tu étais un pilier de cette famille, ton départ va laisser un grand vide. Mais ce qui est rassurant c'est que tu as transmis à tes enfants, Erik et tes proches, le goût de se battre et de se débrouiller.
Nous avons passé de bon moments ensemble avec nos familles et ceux sont de bon souvenirs.

Leah, nous te souhaitons un chemin apaisant.

Nos pensées sont aussi à notre famille us en ce moment difficile.

May 13, 2017

Karine Oberlin

My deeper condolence
Leah was always nice with us and was smiling all the time. She was in love with her family and devoted to them.
I remember when she and Erik invited me and my cousin to spend time in fort laderdale when I was 19.. Claire was a baby and nick too :). I had such a great time . Even thought it was complicated to understand each other because of the language, she was there for us to make sure we had a great time ... this is this woman I will remembered of. We loved her.
I will miss her and her post on Facebook that made me laugh.
Rest In Peace Leah. Love from your French familly

May 12, 2017

Kenneth

My deepest condolences. It can be so hard to face the first year without your loved one, but the love of family and friends can carry you through. Most importantly may you "throw all your burdens on GOD"

May 12, 2017

Mike Zientek

Leah was always available to answer any of the many environmental questions I had of her when she was at HNTB. She had a great talent for making complex issues simple, which I greatly appreciated. A class act in every respect, she will be greatly missed.

May 12, 2017

Grace Pangia

Leah was a wonderful friend and coworker. We laughed often and I always admired her perspective and perseverance. My heart tremendously goes out to Claire, Erik and her family. She will be greatly missed.

May 12, 2017

Brenda Trevino

Leah was a champion of the environment, but also a champion of people. She was open and honest and always willing to help, regardless of the situation (with a smile). She had only been at the Port Authority a few months when she and others took time on a Saturday to help clean out my flooded home last year. Her positive human spirit will be missed. She made a big impact on the lives of those around her....

May 11, 2017

Fred Pounds

Leah was a terrific board member and friend of the Galveston Bay Foundation. She loved the Bay and was a true guardian of the environment and the special blessings we shared.. She was a key contributor and was committed to her role on the board and key committees. We will truly miss her.

May 11, 2017

Lindsay France

Posted by Lindsay France

May 11, 2017

Lindsay France

Posted by Lindsay France

May 11, 2017

Lindsay France

Posted by Lindsay France

May 11, 2017

Lindsay France

Posted by Lindsay France

May 11, 2017

Lindsay France

To say Leah was "one of a kind" is an understatement. She was the world's greatest mentor, leader, boss and friend. Leah was humble and kind; energetic and passionate; brilliant and creative. She inspires me every day. I miss you L'Obi Wan- leadership Jedi master <3

May 11, 2017

Paula Ikpatt

I knew Leah through work at HNTB and through volunteering in HISD schools. She had such a kind spirit and I will always remember and be inspired by the way she gave of herself to others. May she rest in perfect peace.

May 11, 2017

Friend

Samantha Rice

Leah was so much more to me than a co-worker and boss. She was someone I could always rely on to keep me grounded and inspire me to achieve my goals. I will always be grateful for the friendship and laughter she brought to my life. Until we meet again may your wings spread wide and may you rest in peace. My sincerest condolences to her family who always came first. May you find peace in her memories.

May 11, 2017

Michelle Winkler

I've been thinking back on the countless hours we spent waiting for the girls at lessons and rehearsals over the last decade. It was in those many lobbies, parking lots, and restaurants that I learned about Leah's advocacy for the environment and education. I always admired her intelligence and technological savvy, but mostly her striking ability to believe in the goodness of mankind- to trust the positive energy of the cosmos. So much so, that she encouraged her beautiful family to experience life no matter where it took them. With that kind of strength, she could handle anything and do it with a hearty laugh. You're not the boss of me will forever make me smile. She will be missed by many, but has left a lasting and powerful legacy. Here's to peace and love for Leah on this next adventure

May 10, 2017

Tunis McElwain

Leah was an intelligent and passionate person who lived each day the to fullest. I always admired her tenacity when standing up for things she felt were right. May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

May 10, 2017

Richard Ridings

Leah was a delightful friend and co-worker at HNTB. Always smiling and helping so much that she seemed more like a sister. Leah's loss cannot be replaced but will oft be remembered for her contribution to the environment of our world and the depths of satisfaction to our hearts. GOD has a special place in Heaven for Leah and I am confident that she will be at the Gate waiting our arrival, Richard L Ridings, HNTB Texas.

May 10, 2017

Friend

Inas Aweidah

A great person, wonderful friend, was always full of life! I can still hear her laugh and will always remember the good times we had at work, I will miss her -- may she rest in peace -

May 10, 2017

Debbie Taylor

in my brief opportunity to work with Leah and getting to know her, I must say that she wanted the best for her daughter Claire whom she loved very much. She was a true problem solver and would take on any challenge in a positive way. We will miss her liveliness and can do attitude!

May 10, 2017

Scott Jones

I was privileged to know and work with Leah on Galveston Bay issues. Such a smart and wonderful person. Always had a smile. She will be missed. My condolences to her family.

May 10, 2017

Miguel Mozdzen

Leah, your sincere friendship will be greatly missed. You are a unique and special person that will never be forgotten by all who knew you. I am fortunate to have met you, and will always remember you as the wonderful friend and professional you were. Thank you for touching my life. Rest in peace and watch over us from God's kingdom. Amen. My deepest condolences and prayers to the entire family.

May 10, 2017

Friend

Miguel Mozdzen

May 10, 2017

Rich Byrnes

Great leader -- genuine person -- always positive. We will be inspired by her.

May 10, 2017

Steve Sullivan

It was my honor and privilege to work with Leah during her time with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District. While Leah was an GREAT teammate she was an exceptional person. Leah was a great leader who took care of people and always had a smile on her face and a great attitude. I will miss her dearly and the conversations we had that were always punctuated with laughter. We have lost a great one my condolences to the family and all her friends

May 9, 2017

John Calhoun Jr

I can never begin to share all of the love and kindness this woman of God placed in my life. She lit a fire in me that has taken my dreams and pushed me to put some action behind them! My life will never be the same because of her. Leah..You will be missed!!

May 8, 2017

Carleen Lyden-Kluss

Leah carried a fire within her that her illness couldn't conquer. She was indomitable!! May God embrace her and bless her.

May 8, 2017

Lisa Ashley

Leah had the most wonderful personality and such a great sense of humor. Both she and her lovely smile will be sorely missed. Please accept my deepest condolences. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

May 8, 2017

Friend

Donna Fecher

I knew Leah when she was balancing life as a grad student and single mom at Notre Dame. She was an outgoing, bright, strong, lovely young lady. We connected & remained in touch over the years. It was wonderful to see her personal and professional life unfold. She was clearly happy, blessed and loved by so very many. I'd hoped and prayed for her healing and am deeply saddened by her passing. I will light a candle for Leah at the Grotto of Our Lady. Sending my deepest sympathies and most fervent prayers to you all. -Donna Fecher, University of Notre Dame

May 8, 2017

Vicki Miranda

My condolences to Leah's family. I'm going to miss hearing her laughter throughout our office and I'm definitely going to miss listening to her wonderful stories. Leah was an amazing woman. Sending prayers out to the entire family.

May 8, 2017

Erica Godfrey

Leah will be missed. Her laugh was one in a million. I will pray for peace for the family and we will see her again one day!

May 8, 2017

Renea Jarvis

Leah was an amazing co-worker, she was always friend, outgoing and helpful. She will be so missed, but I know she will always be with us in our hearts. Sending prayer out to her family!

May 8, 2017

Kelly Day

My deepest sympathy and condolences to Leah's family. She was a unique lady who was a joy to know and work with. Her bright smile and positive outlook on life will be truly missed.

May 8, 2017

Therese Bilnoski

May 8, 2017

M Buckles

Your bright light will live on in the precious memories of those who's lives you touched! To the family -- praying for your continued strength during this difficult time.

May 8, 2017

I will miss her cheerful smile and loving heart.
Priscilla Burroughs

May 8, 2017

Tom & Dorothy Ellis

Leah was truly an accomplished, friendly, energetic, kind person. Tom and I are blessed to have spent time personally with her. She will be greatly missed. Our prayers of comfort for her family.

May 8, 2017

Melissa Nixon

Leah,

A beautiful person, loved knowing her, I will miss her smiling face at PHA.

May 8, 2017

Coworker

Nancy Woollett

Your life was a blessing, you are loved by all and will be missed. Prayers for your family.

May 8, 2017

Sandra Cisneros

To the family and friends of Leah, I am so sorry for your loss. May God wrap his loving arms around you in the days and months to come. She will be greatly missed.

May 8, 2017

Oscar Zavala

Leah we all loved you here at the PORT because you taught us to do it so, and thanks for all those wonderful moments we shared together. Happy Journey to your Creator and pray for all of us. From Oscar Zavala and Family.

May 7, 2017

Toni Enriquez

I will love you till the day I die. I pray you a peaceful journey and look forward to the day I see you again. Rest well my child. Mamma

May 7, 2017

Coworker

Sandra Neveu

A most unique and wonderful person to have known. Rest in peace Leah Ann Oberlin.

Showing 1 - 54 of 54 results

Make a Donation
in Leah Oberlin's name

Memorial Events
for Leah Oberlin

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Geo. H. Lewis & Sons Funeral Directors

1010 Bering Drive, Houston, TX 77057

How to support Leah's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Leah Oberlin's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more