Richard Neal Leihser's Obituary
Richard Neal Leihser (Dick), passed away peacefully at his home with his family around him on September 20, 2024. He was 93, or as Dick would have preferred, he experienced 34,224 days of life. Dick was the eldest of two children born to William T. and Tillie B. Leihser on January 8, 1931, who, along with his sister Beverly Jean Leihser (Novak), preceded him in death.
He married the love of his life, Barbara Lee Chamblin, on February 1, 1952, beginning a journey of love and partnership that lasted 72 years. They had five children: Rodney William (deceased), Sandra Kaye (Daryl Barnett), Kim Suzanne (Philip Parr), Richard Thomas Leihser (Karen Ahlenius), and Joel Scott Leihser (Lori Reynolds). His legacy extends through his 11 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild, each touched by his love, and all experienced his humor.
Dick was a proud veteran serving his country during the Korean War from 1952 to 1953, embodying the spirit of service. Following his military service, he returned to Decatur to work beside his father to successfully build Leihser Oil Company, a role he fulfilled for 40 years.
In addition, he dabbled in different business interests such as holding joint interest in an airplane and a racehorse. He sold his airplane shortly after he witnessed the pilot attempt to land the plane, bouncing off the runway several times. He also divested his share of ownership in the horse supposedly after it finished “dead last,” as Dick put it.
Beyond his professional life, Dick was a man of many interests and passions. He was an avid golfer, bowler, and boater. He was also a member of the Decatur Gun Club, where he earned the title of Club Champion several times. Known for his sense of humor, Dick was an accomplished practical jokester, bringing laughter and joy to those around him.
Dick’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his spirit lives on in the stories, laughter, and memories he created. He was not just a husband, father, and grandfather, but a friend to many, whose life exemplified the values of hard work, love and friendship. The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to Dick’s in-home caregivers for the close attention, compassion, and friendship they provided over the years.
A graveside service with military rites will be held at 11am Saturday, September 28, in Macon County Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Decatur Gun Club (PO Box 3062 Decatur, IL 62523) and the Macon County Honor Guard (889 W. Herald Circle, Decatur IL 62526).
Richard will be missed but never forgotten, his legacy continuing in our memories.
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