William Jon Leith
October 02, 2013
William (Bill) Jon Leith, of Osceola, passed away with his loving family by his side on Wednesday, October 2, 2013 at his home after a courageous battle with cancer.
Bill was born on June 26, 1952 in Pocahontas, Iowa to Oliver and Mary (Young) Leith. He was raised on the family farm near Laurens and enjoyed farming at a young age. He attended elementary school in Ware and then went on to graduate from Laurens High School in 1970. After high school, he continued to farm and raise cattle.
On July 5, 1974, he married Debra Eckerman and they made their home on the family farm. Soon after, they were blessed with four perfect children, Traci, Michael, Kristi and Lori. Bill enjoyed farming and being with his family. In 2006, Bill and Debbie moved to Osceola to be closer to their children and grandchildren. He began working for Farmer’s Coop of Osceola and enjoyed driving a truck and hauling grain. When he was not working, Bill loved taking care of his horses, fishing with his grandchildren and always had his faithful dog, Toby, by his side.
Bill leaves behind his loving wife, Debbie; children, Traci (Jason) Osborne, Mike (Tracy) Leith, Kristi Meyer and Lori (Josh) Griffith; grandchildren, Wesley, Brooke, Monica, Vanessa, Shaylen, Laney, Quincy and Trace; brothers, David Leith, Don (Shar) Leith; sister, Carol (Bill) Lauritzen; and numerous nieces, nephews and other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Oliver and Mary.
Services will be held on Sunday, October 6, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines, IA. Visitation will be held 2 hours prior.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Hospice of Central Iowa. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Janet Roewe Piller
10/23/2013
So sorry that I did not realize Bill had passed and his service really here in "my backyard." Bill and I became friends in junior high. We were 4-H friends, loving horses and all that was rural Iowa. Last time I saw him was about 12-13 yrs ago. Bill and his parents were chips out of the same stone --- the heart of all things good! I remember Mary and Oliver well. God bless the memory of Bill and look after his family....Janet Roewe Piller
Fred and Bev Graves
10/08/2013
We will always remember Bill for all his kindnesses to his neighbors a mile away. I remember walking the drifts to our house after staying at your home because the road was closed. He insisted on coming along to make sure everything was ok with our horses and the house. We always enjoyed the card games with you two when the kids were all so little. It was heartbreaking to hear the news of his death. A good man is in heaven's embrace and forming a heavenly Ware Saddle Club. Our sincere sympathy and prayers for you all.
Charlie and Peggy
10/07/2013
Bill was such a good man. We remember his love of farming and his horses and of course playing cards with you guys. He always had a smile for us. He will be missed by all who knew him!! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. You now have another Angel to watch over you. May your memories give you peace and comfort. Love you all.
Lisa Felice
10/06/2013
So very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Becky & Mike Kuckta Family
10/04/2013
Feeling a deep loss in the crazy, funny Leith side of the family. Rest in peace Uncle Bill.
Becky Braesch
10/05/2013
Bill was the kind of forever friend that you could go years without seeing and then run into each other and pick up right where you left off!! My deepest sympathy to you Deb! And Traci, Mike, Christi, Lori and families!
Bil & Carol
10/04/2013
Few people had the heart of Bill. His mission was always helping people and not bothering anyone. He thought of others first. A good man, uncle, brother , and friend is gone but will never be forgotten. We love you Bill.
Art Woodcock
10/04/2013
Very sorry for your loss. Words offer little comfort but family and friends are here for you.