Welcome to Leoland
Welcome to Leoland
Dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of Gary Leo, a remarkable engineer, special effects artist, and talented photographer. Gary’s innovative engineering skills were pivotal behind the scenes, creating the technology used to produce awe-inspiring effects in films like “Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back” and “Raiders of the Lost Ark.” Beyond cinema, his nature and landscape photography capture the beauty of the natural world. Gary’s multifaceted contributions continue to inspire and captivate across various fields.
Personal Life
Gary resides in Fairfax, CA, where he spent many joyful years with his beloved wife, Patricia. Gary and Patricia were the quintessential Fairfax couple, living at the end of Inyo Ave. Their backyard garden was a stunning oasis that resembled Eden, brimming with vibrant flowers. The garden, where friends and neighbors gathered to enjoy the serene beauty and warm hospitality. Though Patricia is no longer with us, her spirit lives on in the beautiful garden they nurtured together, and in the memories of those who experienced their love and generosity. He is the proud father of his daughter, Lily Ann Leo, and his son, Adam M. Cutter.
Gary is an avid cyclist who could often be found riding his bike with friends in the Mt. Tamalpais watershed almost every day. He is also a talented photographer, well-known for his stunning nature and landscape photography. His keen eye for detail and love for the natural world are evident in his captivating images that showcase the beauty of the environment.
Professional Expertise
Gary’s expertise extends beyond special effects. He has four decades of experience designing electronic controls for various high-tech industries, including computers, movie making, robotics, sound reinforcement, holography, industrial control, motor control, chemical production, mining, and wireless communication.
Career Highlights
• Apple Computer (1992-2005): Senior Continuation Engineer providing worldwide services for mobile computers and wireless products.
• Apple Computer (1991-1992): System Integrator (Contractor) for the Pen Input Macintosh Computer project.
• Worked with numerous companies such as 4.0 Automation, Avtek Systems, DST Controls, Edgewriter, Expert Edge, Industrial Light and Magic, Ultrasound, US Bureau of Mines, Delta Genesis, Duderstadt Machine Design, Emission Control Systems.
Education and Patents
- B&K Audio Analysis Seminar (1978)
- University of California Extension Center, Holography (1967)
- Colorado State University (3 Years Undergraduate Study, 1960)
Patents:
- US-5119318: Expert control system for real-time management of automated factory equipment