Leo Adler (1895–1993) was an American entrepreneur and philanthropist known for his successful magazine reshipping business and his extensive contributions to his community. Born in Baker City, Oregon, Leo began his entrepreneurial journey at a young age, peddling magazines from a single paper bag. With the help of his loyal canine companion, Prince, Leo expanded his business to include a magazine mail service and added several additional magazine lines to his inventory. He established his first office in the corner of his father's jewelry and music store.
After graduating from Baker High School, Leo followed his father's advice and chose not to pursue higher education, instead focusing on growing his business. By the age of 20, he had built a major magazine reshipping business that employed a dedicated staff of 30 members. Leo's business thrived, eventually becoming a seven-state empire with 2,000 outlets and selling over 3 million magazines annually. Despite his immense success, Leo maintained a modest standard of living and possessed a genuine care for people.
Leo Adler's philanthropic endeavors were a defining aspect of his life. Throughout his lifetime, he used his wealth to support those less fortunate and to contribute to various community services. In 1939, he made his first major gift to the city by purchasing a pumper truck for the Fire Department. Leo's generosity extended to St. Elizabeth Hospital, to which he donated large sums annually, as well as the Baker City Fire Department, to which he provided numerous ambulances. He even arranged for steaks to be delivered by taxi to the fire station and provided a television set for the firemen to enjoy during night duty.
An avid baseball fan, Leo attended over 20 consecutive World Series and demonstrated his support for the sport by financing the construction of a baseball field in Baker City. This field was later dedicated in his name by then Governor Mark Hatfield. Leo also made significant contributions to the high school, Little League, and Babe Ruth programs, providing modern floodlighting for the playing fields and the local rodeo grounds. Additionally, he played a crucial role in attracting high school basketball and football tournaments to Baker City, as well as the Shrine East-West game.
Leo Adler received numerous honors and awards from local, regional, and national organizations in recognition of his unwavering dedication to the welfare of the people in his community and the state of Oregon. His philanthropic spirit extended to educational institutions, historical preservation groups, medical facilities, regional development initiatives, health and welfare organizations, and religious denominations.
Upon his death, Leo Adler's immense wealth created a lasting legacy in the form of a scholarship fund, aimed at encouraging the development of future generations' minds, and a community fund that supported worthy projects by charitable organizations. Leo's ultimate gift to his beloved community reflected his deep commitment, sound business principles, and hard work. His contributions continue to positively impact the lives of many and serve as an inspiration for philanthropy and community involvement.