In Worcester, February 12, 2012 Leslie Rose, age 71 passed away following a brief illness. Leslie was the husband of the late Sandra (Cataloni) Rose. He was born in Taunton to his late parents William & Amy (Rego) Rose. Leslie was educated in Taunton schools. He was a former NASCAR champion driver who also was the crew chief for his son Leslie Jr. when he was champion. Leslie also enjoyed fishing and spending time with family. He is survived by his children; Leslie Jr. and his wife Robin of Southbridge, Andora Hamilton & her husband Greg of Franklin, Cindy Ellis, Kim Soares, Lynne Sheehan, Tammy Carey and the late Corinne Coleman. His siblings; Richard Rose of Tuscon, Arizona, Margaret Dutra of Needville, TX, Audrey Caron of Taunton, David Rose of Taunton and the late Nancy Winders and William Rose Jr. Leslie also leaves his twenty grandchildren and four great grandchildren and his beloved nephew Anthony Mendoza of Taunton. Arrangements are under the direction of the O’Keefe-Wade Funeral Home in Taunton, MA. Funeral services will be private at the request of the family. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the U-Mass Memorial Hospice, C/O U-Mass Development Office, 333 South St. Shrewsbury, MA 01545