Died 1991 here's an extract from rockabilly hall of fame:

Clarence Leonidas Fender, better known as "Leo Fender" is the creator and inventor of the world famous "Fender Guitar". Some of the world's greatest musicians prefer to play none other than a "Fender Guitar". Leo Fender was born August 10, 1909 on his parents farm in Anaheim, CA. In Leo's spare time he enjoyed repairing electronic equipment. During high school, Leo decided to pursue a professional career in accounting. By the early 1930's Leo married his wife Esther Klosky and worked as an accounted for the State of California Highway Department in San Louis Obispon. When the great depression hit Leo unfortunately lost his job.

Leo who was an extreamly resourceful and creative man decided to start his own business. He borrowed six hundred dollars and opened an equipment repair shop called Fender Radio Service. Eventually Leo got involved in the guitar and amplifier business as well. Leo soon found his true passion in life, this ending up making him a very successful entrepreneur. Leo re-invent and improve on the technology of the electric guitar. His new guitar had a cutting edge sound which ended up revolutionizing and changing the face of the music industry. In his later years, Leo's health began to fail him. Leo continued to innovate right up until his final days. Leo suffered a number of strokes and developed Parkinson's disease, and died on March 21, 1991.