James Leininger

Leininger, James L.

James L. Leininger, 64, of Wausau, passed away on Saturday, February 2, 2013 while under the care of Aspirus Hospice Services. He was born to the late Ralph and Antoinette (Litza) Leininger on February 16, 1948 in Wausau. Jim graduated from Newman Catholic High School in 1966. He served his country honorably in the U.S. Air Force from 1967-1971, stationed in England during the Vietnam War. He married the love of his life, Shirley Buckley on September 22, 1973, in Wausau.

Jim enjoyed his life of adventure on the road as an owner/operator through Graebel Van Lines for 20 years followed by SNE Transportation until his retirement in 2011. When he wasn't working, he was busy helping raise his six sons. As Scout Leader for Samoset counsel, he loved to help build Pinewood Derby cars with his sons and later, his grandsons. He was talented in carving, woodworking, and cooking with a genuine love for camping, sailing, and rock collecting. Jim was well known for his great sense of humor filled with good comebacks and quick wit.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley Leininger; six sons, Jeremy (Carin) Leininger, Wausau, Ryan (Kelly) Leininger, Kirkland, Wash., Bradley (Melissa) Leininger, Wausau, Nicholas (Caitlin) Leininger, Wausau, Marc Leininger, Wausau and Jacob Leininger, Wausau; 7 grandchildren, Brayton Daupert, Landyn Pfantz, Braedyn Ottman, Elias Leininger, Addelyn Leininger, Coltyn Leininger, and Maggie Mae Leininger; a sister, Dolores Herbert, Sussex.

Memorial services will be held at 6 p.m. on Friday, February, 8, 2013 at Brainard Funeral Home 522 Adams St., Wausau. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. until the time of service, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family.

Online condolences may be given at www.brainardfuneral.com

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of the Aspirus Palliative Care and Aspirus Cancer Center for their compassion during this difficult time.