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Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Alan R. Leff
Age: 89
City: Iowa City
Funeral Home
Lensing Funeral Home and Cremation Service
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Alan R. Leff
Alan R. Leff
Iowa City
Alan Leff died on December 25, 2025, after a prolonged battle with the challenges of aging. His was a life well lived.
Alan was born in Iowa City on June 26, 1936, to Arthur and Zella Leff. He attended City High School and the University of Iowa, graduating with a BS in electrical engineering and a law degree. Alan joined his father and brother, Phil, in private practice at what is now the Leff Law Firm. In 1991, he transitioned from law to financial planning, working at Heartland Investments and then RDA Financial Network until his retirement in 2016.
Beyond his professional career, Alan believed in giving back to the community. He served for three terms on the Iowa City School Board, worked the Optimist Club tree lot during the holidays, and supported local organizations, including the Crisis Center of Johnson County. His hobbies included hunting, woodworking, traveling, and watching Iowa athletics.
On the personal side, Alan married Janet Robertson on July 18, 1964, and they had three children: Craig, Scott, and Megan. He lived in University Heights for more than 60 years and loved socializing with his neighbors. Alan had a genuine interest in people and was a great listener who could immediately put people at ease. He also had an infectious sense of humor, often proving that there’s no such thing as a cheap laugh. In his later years, Alan was happiest when surrounded by family.
He is survived by his wife, three children, and eight grandchildren. He will be sorely missed.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 14 from 2 to 4 pm at the Courtyard Marriott, 901 Melrose Ave.

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