Robert Wesley Leitner

It is with profound sadness and the heaviest of hearts that the family of Robert “Bob” Wesley Leitner announces his peaceful passing at home on September 9, 2025, at the age of 78.

Bob was born on February 7, 1947, in Winnsboro, South Carolina, and grew up in Fargo, North Dakota. He attended Washington Elementary, Benjamin Franklin Junior High School, and Central High, where he met his future wife, Rebecca Leitner.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and man of faith, Bob lived his life with kindness, integrity, and love for others. He never met a stranger, touched every life he encountered, and will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and unwavering devotion to his family. In 1963, Bob and Rebecca began their journey together, marrying in 1967. They built a strong and loving home until Rebecca’s passing in 2023. Bob remained the steadfast center of the family.

Bob proudly served in the United States Army and went on to graduate from North Dakota State University’s School of Pharmacy. He dedicated his career as a lifelong pharmacist, serving his community with knowledge, care, and compassion. Outside of work, Bob was an avid reader, enjoyed watching sports, following politics, attending family events, and, of course, anything connected to his beloved church.

He is survived by his three children, Michele Leitner, Rachel Porter, and Mark Leitner; his grandchildren, Nathan Leitner, Allison McKoy, and Dedra Porter; his 10 great-grandchildren; his siblings Jim Leitner, Joe Leitner, and Amy Leitner; and a host of extended family and friends who will cherish his memory. Bob also considered his church family to be every bit as dear to him as his own.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rebecca Leitner, and by his parents, John and Viola Leitner of Fargo, North Dakota.

Bob will be deeply missed but forever remembered as a faithful man of God, a devoted family man, and a gentle soul who lived without enemies.

Funeral services will be held at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 739 West Erie Street, Chandler, Arizona 85225, on September 30, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Bob’s many friends, his caregivers, his church family, and especially to Rachel Porter for their love, support, and devoted care.