Leo George Lauber passed away on July 13, 2016 at the age of 82 years. Leo grew up on the family farm in the Dodds district, where he attended Solberg and Standard Schools. At the age of 16, after his father’s sudden passing, he took over the farming operation and also worked at various jobs to help his mother raise the family. At a church youth function, a young lady caught his eye, and in 1957 he married Ellen Kauffman. They settled on the family farm north of Dodds and were blessed with 4 children. They stayed on the farm until 2002, when they moved into Tofield. His life’s work was also his hobby. He loved the farm, especially raising cattle, haying, harvesting, and meals in the field. He enjoyed coffee and visits with neighbours, watching sports on television (especially hockey), reading, and singing.He leaves to mourn his passing; his sons Darwin Lauber, and Lonnie (Michele) Lauber; daughters Darlene (Wayne) Showalter and Luella (Jon) Anderson, 13 grandchildren: Lindsey (Amy) Lauber, Arissa Lauber, Isabel (Ray) Thiessen, Christina (Jarrett) McLeod, Colby Lauber, Delsen Lauber, Ann Showalter (Michael Sitvarin), Laura (Jason) Katterhenry, Alexandra Lauber, Torey Lauber, Jaron Lauber, Evan Anderson, and Evangelina Anderson, 5 great grandchildren, 4 brothers: Ben (Pearl) Lauber, Calvin Lauber, Murray (Sylvia) Lauber, Byron (Leslie) Lauber, 1 sister Phyllis (Geoff) Milligan, 3 sisters-in-law: Lois Lauber, Betty (Merlin) Stauffer, Grace (Edwin) Good and 3 brothers-in-law: Donald (Dolores) Kauffman, Joe (Elaine) Kauffman, and Walter (Jean) Lutz.
He was predeceased by his wife Ellen, his parents Joseph and Martha Lauber, his brother William, sister-in law Inez, parents-in-law Loyal & Lily Kauffman, and niece Michelle Lauber.
He was baptised in the Salem Mennonite Church at a young age where he served faithfully for many years. He enjoyed the weekly discussions in Sunday School class. He served the community as a member of the Gas Co-op and the Wheat Pool District. He had a quiet demeanor and was a listener, with an intoxicating laugh, a welcoming smile, and a ball cap tilted slightly to the left on his head. He loved his Lord, his farm, and his family.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 26, 2016 at Salem Mennonite Church with Pastor Mark Loewen officiating. Cremation has taken place and inurnment will take place at the Salem Mennonite Church Cemetery.