John “Jack” Roger Leskey, 86, passed away February 1, 2011 at his home.
Jack was born August 23, 1924 in Merrill to the late John & Margaret (Shape) Leskey. He married Jean Lang December 13, 1947 in Merrill. She preceded him in death August 28, 1994.
Jack attended Merrill Senior High School. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII where he played saxophone in the Army Band. Some of the musicians he played with in the Army later played with the Glenn Miller Band. During the war Jack fought in the invasion of Normandy and served in France & Belgium. After the war he still played in a band for 2 years before marrying his wife Jean in 1947. He worked for Weinbrenner Shoe Factory for over 30 years and had worked part time for Merrill Monument retiring in 1985. Jack was a member of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Merrill. He was a charter member of the Keg Club. Jack was a huge Packer fan and was a season ticket holder for over 70 years. He was a founding member of the Rock Island Ski Club. Jack enjoyed going to Woodruff with his family and staying at the Fox Fire Campground. He also enjoyed golfing and entertaining his friends.
Survivors include his two sons: Bruce (Sandy) Leskey and Jim (Cindy) Leskey, all of Merrill; one brother: Ray Leskey, Wausau; five grandchildren: Jordan Leskey, Valerie (Tony Burrows) Isaacson, Bruce (Heidi) Isaacson, Matt Leskey and Nick Leskey; three great-grandchildren: Madalia & Colton Burrows and Brodie Isaacson:1 niece: Jane (Barry) Jensen; 1 great-niece: Katie (John) Gooding; Jack is also survived by his lifelong friend and neighbor, Linda Henrichs. He was preceded in death by his wife: Jean, parents: John & Margaret Leskey, brother: Bruce, two grandchildren: Chad & Christina Leskey, one sister-in-law: Joan Leskey and nephew, Kirk Leskey.
Services will be 10:30 AM Saturday, February 5, 2011 at Waid Funeral Home. Pastor Beth Macha will officiate. Visitation will be Friday, February 4, 2011 from 4 -8 PM and again from 9:30 until the time of service, all at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Merrill Memorial Park. Military Honors will be performed by VFW Post #1638. Waid Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.