Brookfield, Wisconsin
Leas, Jodi Lynn (Nee Rusch) Of Elm Grove, born on February 16, 1963 and entered eternal life on August 26, 2010, surrounded by her loving family. Beloved wife of Gregory S. Leas and mother of Nicholas and Ben Leas. Preceded in death by her mother Dorothy Rusch. Loving daughter of Sheldon W. (Diane) Rusch and sister of Sheldon M. (KT) Rusch, and Todd (Kym) Rusch. Also survived by Arnold and Rose Marie Leas, Bryan Leas, Kristine (Mike) Guest, Michael Leas, and several nieces and nephews. Jodi was a true lake girl who loved the north woods, particularly her summer home on Duck Lake in Eagle River, WI. She was a gracious north woods hostess, following the tradition set by her beloved Grandmother, Lillian Weyenberg of Three Lakes, WI. During many memorable summers Jodi hosted family and friends at Duck Lake and never tired of directing activities for the children who adored her. She always looked forward to reuniting with her "summer sisters", especially her beloved cousin Amy Decker who was truly a sister in her heart. Jodi was a born sports mom; the daughter of a Big 10 baseball player and coach, she was the perfect mom for two athletic boys and she never tired of the numerous rides to soccer and basketball practices and games. She was also a talented writer who published many essays and articles, mostly on the subject of motherhood. Visitation Monday, August 30, 2010, at the funeral home from 4:00-7:00PM. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, August 31, 2010, 10:30AM at St. Mary's Visitation Church, 1260 Church St., Elm Grove. Private graveside service St. Mary's Cemetery Elm Grove. In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Nick and Ben Leas Educational Fund, Town Bank 13150 Watertown Plank Rd., Elm Grove, WI 53122.
My heart sank as I read the news of Jodi's passing. Even though it had been many years since I last saw her, I felt a certain kinship given she was fighting the same battle as my dear sister. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers...
Your buddy always,
Niels
Niels Dale
September 08, 2010 | Chicago, IL
Gregg~I saw KT today and she told me about Jodi. I cannot even begin to tell you how sad I was to hear about her passing. She was an amazing spirit and I have many fond memories of time spent with her. Please know that your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Jill Neyens
September 01, 2010 | Milwaukee, WI
Gregg,
You have my deepest condolences in your loss of Jody. May God strengthen and comfort you and your family during this difficult time. I am
Sincerely,
Monica Aune
August 31, 2010 | NC
Gregg,
I was so sorry to hear about Jodi's passing. She was a real fighter and I will always remember her for the outstanding courage she had. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Kaylinn Miller, NP
August 31, 2010
Gregg,
Frank and I were deeply saddened when we learned about Jodi's passing. Words cannot even begin to express how our hearts go out to you and your boys.
May God's grace strengthen you; may your heart and soul find peace and comfort in the days ahead.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
With deepest sympathy,
Sue Riedijk
August 30, 2010 | Milwaukee, WI
To the Leas and Rusch family, especially Nick and Ben, my heart breaks for you and I wish you all of God's grace at this time. Though you're heartbroken now, time has a way of helping you cope and make sense of, not only your Mom's passing, but also her loving spirit.
-Burke Seeberg, St. Mary's Visitation, Elm Grove, WI
August 30, 2010
To the entire Rusch and Leas family....I will always cherish the time i had spent with Jodi .She was a true inspiration and motivator to me in my young adulthood..May she rest in peace with her mother in eternal life in jesus name amen.....Christopher Lavin
August 29, 2010
Gregg - I was so sorry to learn of Jodi's passing. Through your words and actions I could sense how much you truly loved and cared for Jodi. While the long-term miracle that everyone had hoped and prayed for may not have come, her spirit will live on through you and the boys forever. God bless you and your family.
David Hoy
August 29, 2010 | Elm Grove, WI
Jodi really does have the best smile and laugh. She really had a beautiful grace and calmness about her, filling the room with her positive spirit - her shining light. Gregg, Nick, Ben and the extended family we have met along the way... you will always remind us of Jodi and to smile and be thankful for every day spent with family, friends and the wonderful people that we encounter throughout our lives.
Kristi and Paul Antonneau
August 28, 2010 | SMV Family, WI