Leonard Leis

Leonard L. Leis, 88, of Scottsbluff, Nebraska, entered the arms of Jesus Saturday, November 26, 2022, at Western Nebraska Veterans’ Home in Scottsbluff, surrounded by his loving family.  A private family memorial service will be held. Cremation has taken place in accordance with Leonard’s wishes.  Memorials may be made to The Legacy of the Plains Museum or Gering American Legion Post #36. Condolences may be expressed by visiting www.reverencefuneralparlor.com.

Leonard was born April 14, 1934, in Scottsbluff to George and Charlotte “Lottie” (Hopp) Leis. He attended Fairview 50 during elementary school years. Leonard was class vice president his senior year, graduating from Minatare High School in 1952.

He enlisted to the United States Army following high school.  Leonard served from 1954 to 1956, during which time he was deployed to France for nine months. He was honorably discharged from the service and returned home to the family farm where he had been raised.

He married Norma Jean Schwartz on September 30, 1956, and to this union four children were born: Tammy, Mike, David, and Dan.  They made their home on the family farm. Leonard farmed for over 70 years and fed cattle during much of that time.  He retired in 2010 and moved to Scottsbluff.

Leonard enjoyed annual summer trips to the mountains in Estes Park, Colorado.  He was an enthusiast for local track racing, sprint cars (World of Outlaws) and NASCAR. He also kept active building numerous projects in his shop. His favorite pastime was following his grandkids’ activities and supporting them at each event.

Leonard was a former board member of the Lake Minatare School District #64 and served on the board of the Minatare Rural Fire Department for many years.  He was a lifelong member of Salem Congregational Church, volunteering in multiple capacities all throughout his membership. Leonard was a longtime member of the American Legion as well. Besides the giving of his time, he was also a regular blood donor.

Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Norma; daughter, Tammy Schliening (Stan); sons, Mike (Tami), David and Dan Leis; grandchildren, Brittany Leis-Payne (Bryan), Stephanie Schliening (Kyle), Alexandra Schliening (Mike), Jordan Leis (Nicki) and Grace Leis; along with great grandchildren, Kaden, Kolton, and Olivia Irvine, and Cooper and Harper Page.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Harold; sisters, Dorothy Weisgerber, Florence Reichert, Ruth Kuxhausen, Joan Greeb, and infant sister, Phyllis; and beloved dog, Ike.