Kenneth W. Leahr

Kenneth W. Leahr, age 90, of Pittsfield, IL passed away on Wednesday January 1, 2025, at the Illini Hospital.  He was born on February 18, 1934, in Chambersburg, IL to William and Zelma (Walker) Leahr.  Kenneth first married Janet Hubbard in 1958 and to this union one son was born.  He then married Connie Moore Sanderson in 1991, and she preceded him in death on April 12, 2021. 

Kenneth graduated from Perry High School in 1953 and later attended SIU where he received an associate in technology degree.  In 1956 Kenneth was drafted into the U.S. Army serving our country as an airplane mechanic and was honorably discharged in 1958.  Kenneth worked several years for Benson Motors in Pittsfield and also worked for the Ford and Chrysler dealerships.  He then went to work for the Pike County Housing Authority in the maintenance department, where he retired from in 2004.  He also continued to work on vehicles throughout those years.  He was fixer, aka jack of all trades, and was able to fix most anything.  Kenneth was very meticulous, not only with his home but loved to mow his yard and keep everything in its place.  He was a great caregiver for his wife Connie, always making sure she had what she needed.  His best days were when the family was around, always enjoying their company.  Kenneth was a smart, patient man who was sensitive to people’s feelings and wore his heart on his shoulder.  He will be missed by all who knew him.

Kenneth is survived by his children, David Leahr, Winnebago, IL, Karma (Karl) Dunham of Salem, IL, Mitch (Sherri) Sanderson of Cantrall, IL, Vince Sanderson of Barry, IL, and Troy (Kristi) Sanderson of Pittsfield, IL; eighteen grandchildren; twenty-one great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; two nieces, Janet Stone and Ann Gardner.  He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Connie; two brothers, Robert Leahr and Roger Leahr; daughter-in-law Lisa Leahr; and niece, Tammy Kessler.

Cremation rites have been accorded.  Graveside services with Military Funeral Honors will be held on March 29, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Pittsfield West Cemetery.  Memorials are suggested to be made to Oakwood Cemetery or Pittsfield West Cemetery.  Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com.  Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements. 

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