Leighton Weltz

Leighton Weltz, beloved husband, father and grandfather, small business owner and musician, passed away on November 12, 2025, at Care Initiatives Eldora Specialty Care in Eldora, Iowa. A visitation in Leighton’s honor will take place on November 17, 2025, starting at 12:30 PM at the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Eldora. This will be followed by a funeral service at the same location beginning at 2:00 PM. Interment will take place at Eastlawn Cemetery.

He was born on September 14, 1940, in Scotland, South Dakota to Edmund and Anna (Kost) Weltz. Leighton’s educational journey began at Scotland High School, graduating in 1958. On July 27, 1969, he and the love of his life, Linda (Rickard) Weltz were united in marriage in Rolfe, Iowa. From this union came four children; Kristin, Heather, Brian and Molly.

Building upon his foundation of learning, Leighton attended the University of South Dakota, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Music in 1962 and soon after, achieved a Master’s degree in Music from the University of Northern Colorado. Leighton devoted 14 years of his career to teaching band in both Middle School and High School in Royal and Spencer, Iowa. His impact on his students was profound, as he nurtured their love for music and inspired them to reach their potential.

After his time in education, Leighton pursued design school in Denver, Colorado, which paved the way for the opening of his own floral business in Eldora in September of 1977. He and Linda successfully operated this venture for four decades before retiring. Despite no longer teaching, Leighton continued to share his musical talents for many years leading the choir and playing organ at First Congregational United Church of Christ. Leighton was also an active member of the Kiwanis Club in Eldora.

In his leisure time, Leighton cherished moments spent fishing, gardening, and taking vacations with his family, creating memories that will be fondly remembered by all who loved him. He took great pride in his family, which includes his wife, Linda Weltz; daughters Kristin (Kelly) Hodges and Heather (Chad Strait) Bruno; son Brian Weltz; daughter Molly (Rory) Heims; honorary son Bill Armstrong; and grandchildren Jimmy, Scott, Samuel, Harper, Jaxson, Nolan, Madelyn, along with many nieces and nephews.

Leighton was preceded in death by his sister, Deloris (Wilfred) Schaeffer. Those who knew Leighton remember him as a kind and caring individual, committed to being of service to his community, his faith and most importantly, to his family. A life well lived.