Fred R. Leinenbach passed away on Friday, November 26, 2021.
He was born in Ferdinand on December 4, 1944, to Renus R. “Amos” and Irma L. (Gogel) Leinenbach.
Fred enlisted in the Unites States Navy during his senior year at St. Ferdinand High School. Following graduation he completed basic training and left for his first duty at the U.S. Naval Military Base in Jacksonville, Florida. He served four years, including a term aboard the U.S.S. Bigelow, and received an Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.
He worked at Jasper Chair and in retirement as a Wal-Mart greeter where he was known for welcoming folks with a friendly smile.
Fred was a member and formerly served as Local Chapter President of ABATE of Indiana. He loved riding his Harley, was an avid hunter and enjoyed gardening. Fred rescued and adored his special handicapped pet cats, Ali Ann and Apollo.
Survivors include one daughter, Lisa Jurrens, two sisters, Valery M. (Wayne) Kessens, Santa Claus and Kay Schlachter, Rio Rancho, New Mexico; one granddaughter, Savannah Jurrens; nieces and nephews.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Bruce A. Leinenbach; two nephews and one niece.
A mass and memorial service will be held at a later date.
The family extends special thanks to the Evansville VA Clinic, the Heart Hospital at Deaconess Gateway Hospital’s Cardiology Cardiovascular Unit and the cardiovascular medical team, Home Instead Senior Care Service and Dale Community Apartments manager Bambi Hagan and the residents and friends who showed Fred companionship, love and care for the past five years.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Dubois County Community Foundations’s Ferdinand Veterans Memorial Endowment or Spencer County It Takes a Village No-Kill Rescue.
