Bernard "Bernie" Carl Leitschuh

Bernard “Bernie” Carl Leitschuh, 82 of Butler, passed away on Monday, March 13, 2023, at HSHS St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield. He was born in Litchfield October 19, 1940, a son of Carl George and Ella Christina (Panske) Leitschuh. He graduated from Litchfield High School with the Class of 1958, and served in the Illinois National Guard. Bernie and the former Shirley Darlene Bess were married in 1961 and they later divorced. She preceded him in death. He was a self-employed contractor of 50 years with Leitschuh Construction, and farmed part-time, especially enjoying raising cattle. He was a member of Mid-State Collectors Antique Tractor Club, Moose Lodge 1634, and served on the boards of both the Butler Homecoming Association and the Montgomery County Fair Association. Bernie was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Litchfield, where he served as a trustee for several years. He was a 4th Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus, Council 699, and President of the Holy Cross Cemetery Association.

Bernie is survived by:

His son, Terry C. (Teri L.) Leitschuh of Marine, IL

His daughter, Melissa “Missy” A. (Toby A.) Dean of Raymond, IL

His special friend, Sharon Derringer Gowin of Litchfield, IL

His faithful four-legged companion, Dancer

His niece, Lori Owens of Raymond, IL

His nephews, Rodney Bess and Rick Bess, both of Litchfield, IL

Several cousins

A Concelebrated Mass of Christian Burial will be said on Monday, March 20, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church in Litchfield. Fr. Dan Willenborg and Fr. Alan Hunter will preside. Burial will be in Holy Cross Cemetery in Litchfield. Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 19, 2023, from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church. Memorials may be directed to Holy Cross Cemetery Association for restoration projects.