Leonard Loehr

Leonard “Leo” Evan Loehr was born September 3, 1977, in Olongapo City, Philippines, and came to the United States on his fifteenth birthday in 1993. Leo’s life combined resilience and creativity. He discovered and honed his talent for tattooing during difficult times, and through dedication transformed that skill into a meaningful livelihood and passion.

In 2017 Leo realized a longtime dream when he opened his own tattoo shop, Art Dynasty Ink, in Morganton. Friends and customers remember him for his artistic eye, steady hand, and the personal care he brought to his work. For many, a visit to his shop became more than an appointment—it was a chance to see his warmth, hear his stories, and leave with something made with thought and skill.

Family was central to Leo’s life. He is survived by his wife, Rae Ann Loehr, and his daughter, Lilliandra Morin, as well as siblings and extended family who cherished him. Those closest to him remember him as a man who loved his craft and who balanced creative ambition with an openness to the people around him.

Leo’s life included trials he faced with honesty; he met both setbacks and successes along the way. His journey from the Philippines to building a small business in North Carolina reflected a combination of determination and artistry that many admired.

Friends and family gathered to remember Leo in January 2020. The family received friends at Art Dynasty Ink on January 14, 2020, and other services were held privately. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Lalaine Acilo and Mimi Acilo.

Those who knew Leonard remember him for his creativity, his commitment to his craft, and the ties he held with his loved ones. His work and the memories shared by family and friends remain a lasting tribute to his life.