Leitch, Thomas Richard

Thomas Richard Leitch was born March 29, 1928, in New Hampton, Iowa. He grew up in Winneshiek County, attending Waucoma High School and two years at Upper Iowa University. Tom served in the United States Marine Corps from 1946 to 1948, with duty in North China.

Tom married Avis Hanson on April, 29 1949, in Staples, Minn. They farmed together in West Union, Fayette County, until 1968. He worked for Sanitary Farm Dairy, Land O'Lakes Dairy and Swiss Valley Farms, retiring in 1990. He died on Sunday, Oct. 25, 2009, from complications of a stroke and asbestosis.

Survivors include Avis, his wife of 60 years; two sisters, Rosemary Hanson of West Union, and Isabell Wegner of Des Moines; two sons, the Rev. Joel S. of Tulsa, Okla., and Samuel T. of Hiawatha; three daughters, Laura Lee Ryan (Bill) of Imperial Beach, Calif., Susan Berk (Jeff) of Vacaville, Calif., and Kathleen Riggle (Ron) of Swisher; 10 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Zenita Leitch.

Tom was known for his quick wit, mechanical mind, love of history and green thumb. Tom was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend to many. He was always first in line to help any friends or neighbors in need.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established at Swisher Bank and Trust, 59 Rose Ave. SW Swisher, IA 52338.

We would like to extend a special thank you to the Solon Care Center and Mercy Hospice in Cedar Rapids.

Services will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday at Cedar Memorial Westside Chapel, 1221 First Ave. SW, Cedar Rapids, with the Rev. Tom Carver of Shueyville United Methodist Church officiating. A visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Westside Chapel and one hour before services Thursday at the chapel.

Please leave online condolences at