Walter F. Leaders

Walter F. Leaders age 94, of Holgate, died early Wednesday morning, January 31, 2024 at Vancrest of Holgate.

His Legacy… He was born February 23, 1929 the son of Frederick and Grace (Keehn) Leaders in Holgate.  He graduated from Holgate High School in 1947.  Walter is a United States Air Force veteran.  On August 18, 1955 he married Bonnie Lou Curns at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne, IN.  Walter was a grain and dairy farmer.  He was a member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Holgate and the Holgate American Legion .  Walter enjoyed baseball and bowling and was an avid sports nut, supporting both the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Detroit Tigers.

His Family… He is survived by his children: Betsy (Vaughn) Smith, Maumee, Dianne (Fred) Keeton, Leesville, SC, Terry Leaders, Oak Harbor and Rex (Tammy) Leaders, Holgate; 9 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and 2 step great grandchildren.  Walter was preceded in death by his wife Bonnie of 67 years on April 29, 2023 and siblings: Carl Leaders, Richard Leaders, Henry Leaders, Clayton Leaders, Dorothy Theiroff, Anna Helmke and an infant sibling.

His Farewell Services… Friends will be received   in the Zachrich Family Funeral Home, 114 William Street, Holgate on Saturday, February 3, 2024 from 10:00 am until the service.   The celebration of Walter’s life will be at 12:00 pm with Reverend Juli Lejman–Guy officiating.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery with military honors.  Contributions in memory of Walter can be made to St. Peter’s Lutheran Church.  Please visit ZachrichFuneralHome.com to leave online condolences.