John Leister

1924 - 2016

John R. Leister
Frederick
John R. Leister, 92, formerly of Harney, died Sunday, June 26, at Ballenger Creek Ctr, Frederick. He was the husband of Shirley M. (Ridinger) Leister, who died Dec. 12, 2009. Born March 3, 1924, in Littlestown, John was the son of the late John E. and Bessie L. (Hartlaub) Leister. He served in the Army during WWII where he was a Combat Infantryman and was awarded the bronze star and a purple heart where he fought in northern France, the Rhinelands, and was in the first wave at Normandy. John was a self-employed Huckster with his route in Baltimore.
Surviving are his daughter, Marilyn Rippeon and her husband, Larry of Taneytown; his sons, Kenneth Leister and wife, Carolyn of Biloxi, Miss. and Michael Leister of Ky.; his 10 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and a great- great-granddaughter. John was predeceased by his son, David A. Leister, and his brother, Fred Leister. He was a member of Harney VFW where he was the last living charter member.
Memorial Mass is Wednesday, July 6, at 10 a.m. at Little's Funeral Home, Littlestown, with Deacon Charles Barnhart officiating. There is no viewing, however, the family will receive friends Wednesday 9:30 to 10 a.m. at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in John's name may be sent to Harney VFW at 5801 Conover Road, Taneytown, MD 21787; or Harney Fire Dept at 5130 Harney Road, Taneytown.
Online condolences may be shared on
littlesfh.com