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Jerald Leeker Obituary


News Death Notice

LEEKER, Jerald W. Jerry Leeker of Trenton, Ohio passed away Friday, June 13th, 2008 at Atrium Medical Center. A battle with fibrosis of the lungs claimed the 61 year-old family man who was loved by many. Jerry was born in Hamilton, Ohio to parents Ruth and Bill Leeker, was raised in Harrison, Ohio, then moved to Trenton, Ohio with wife of 36 years, Margo Leeker (Page), who survives him. He is also survived by by children Pam and husband Rick Painter and grandchildren Zoe and Willa Painter; Bill Leeker and Fiancée Ella Salazar; Sheri Leeker and husband; Kim and husband Tom Thompson and three grandchildren; his sister Carolyn and husband Bob Janosik; brother-in-law, Gary Page and wife Candy; dear family members Doris Page and Hildegarde Luff; dear friends Connie and Larry Parrella. He leaves behind him a legacy of friendships and was best known for his humor, tenacity, loyalty and unconditional love. Jerry loved music, fishing, boating, sports, travel and studying the Civil War, but especially fond of family vacations to Florida and South Carolina. His wealth of knowledge benefited many, but was enjoyed by no one more than his grandchildren. Jerry loved his profession and earned a distinguished career. He worked at AK Steel for 33 years, deeply enjoying the friends and contacts he made throughout the years. Jerry co-produced 8 patents, including an environmentally safe pickling process which gained him a Technical Achievement Award. He also received two Research Special Recognition Awards in two other areas. He loved to research product and processes and developed expertise in and contributed to areas vital to AK. He was a member of the AIST. Jerry's final career move began in August 2004 when he took his scientific skills to Vail Rubber Works, Inc., as a Sales Engineer. He earned the respect and affection from his employer, fellow salesmen and his customers alike. Jerry became a friend to all of those he met. Visitation will be on Tuesday, June 17 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm and the funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, June 18 at 10:00 am, both at Baker-Stevens Funeral Home in Middletown. Memorial contributions may be made to the "Foundation of the ATS" through the Baker-Stevens Funeral Home.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Journal-News on Jun. 16, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
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Richard Swigert

June 18, 2008

Margo,
I was very sorry to hear of Jerry's passing. He was a valued friend.

Beth Knueppel

June 18, 2008

Margo:
I was so surprised and extremely saddened be be notified of Jerry's passing. I enjoyed working with him over the years. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time.

Julie Heitzenrater

June 18, 2008

Margo,
We were saddened to hear of Jerry's passing. We both learned so much from him. He was a mentor and a friend. There wasn't a time that Jerry couldn't make you laugh and put a smile back on your face,no matter what was happening at work. He will be greatly missed. We are so sorry that we could not be there, but please know that you and your entire family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Love, Julie and Martin

Mike Burns

June 18, 2008

To Margo and Family, I had the priviledge of working with Jerry for many years at the Research lab in Middletown. Although we are all deeply saddened by his passing, I want you to know that his bright smile and cheerful attitude would make my day everytime we met. He was truly the epitome of a 'good guy' that you always wanted to be around. He is missed on this earth. Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Hans Schade

June 17, 2008

Margo: in this most difficult time for you, those of us fortunate enough to have Jerry shine a bright ray in our lives would like to offer support through prayer and word. Though saddened deeply by Jerry's death, I take great comfort in my belief that Jerry has gone to meet the Lord - and as my favorite hymn goes "I know that I shall once day see, the goodness of the Lord - when God will wipe away our tears, and death will be no more. I know that my Redeemer lives, that I shall rise again."

Jerry indeed was a bright ray of sunshine in our lives, and I will hold his memory very dear. Know that you'll continue to be in my prayers. God bless, Hans

PS - I still keep my favorite "Leek" picture from 1993 on the board above my desk, and fondly recall our many adventures in exotic locations such as Ashland, KY ... looking for car parts at midnight ...

Jynefir Slusher

June 17, 2008

Pam, Billy and Mrs.Leeker,
I'm so sorry to hear about Mr. Leeker. In this time of sorrow, I can't help but smile as I think of all the wonderful memories I have from sharing my childhood with your wonderful family. My first vacation was with your family to Myrtle Beach(your Dad lost his wallet!!), the camping trips in the back yard, building things in the garage (And helping me get the glue out of my hair!) Although I haven't seen the family in the many years since my childhood, the memories are still fresh. I know all the wonderful memories will bring you some comfort. He will be missed by many. I thank you for sharing your Dad (and family) with me. Your entire family is in my prayers!

Marcia Little

June 17, 2008

Margo, Pam and family: I am so sorry to hear of Jerry's passing. I have many fond memories of Jerry and you all from high school and soccer. Jerry was a great guy who I know will be missed terribly. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

Milford & Claudia Leedy

June 17, 2008

Margo,
So sorry to hear about Jerry's passing. He will be greatly missed by many. He always had a smile and good words for everyone.

Curtis Glenn

June 17, 2008

My condolences on your loss. I worked at Research many years ago. I am sure he will be missed.

Kathy Moran

June 17, 2008

Margo, the YaYa group passes along their condolences, they were so sorry to hear about Jerry. Please come back to the Y soon.
Kathy

Sue & Tony Lauria

June 16, 2008

We are sorry to hear about Jerry. Although we didn't know him very well the time we spent with him was a pleasure. His cousins in California.

Jessica (Fall) Seaks

June 16, 2008

Margo, I am so sorry for your family's loss. Jerry was a wonderful person and a tremendous father. Every time I spent the night with Pam he always treated as his own. He will truley be missed.

Dale & June Lister

June 16, 2008

Margo:
We were stunned by the news and want to express our deepest sympathy to you and your family.

Debbi Nicholson

June 16, 2008

Margo,
Jerry will be missed, he truly made everyone smile. My prayers are with you and your family.

Dorionne Whitaker

June 16, 2008

I am so sorry for your families loss. I didn't know Jerry personally but developed a bond with Margo at the hospital who I found to be one of the sweetest people I could have ever met. I will keep all of you in my prayers.

Beth Barker

June 16, 2008

Margo,

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Jerry will be missed by all who knew him.

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