Leon F. Maierhafer, age 87, of Fremont, passed away on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 following a short illness, at his home in Fremont. He was born on April 24, 1937 in the Town of Wolf River, WI. The son of the late Henry and Audrey (Wagner) Maierhafer, Leon's mother said that he could talk before he could walk, and Leon never denied that claim! Leon attended Sandy Ridge School for one year before it closed. He then attended Tustin School. After that, he attended Weyauwega High School graduating with the class of 1955. During his high school career, Leon, along with three other fellows set the record for the 880 yard relay, and he also received Defensive Player of the Year in football as a 150-lb nose tackle. Four days after graduation, Leon joined the US Navy and had his basic training at Great Lakes. He was then transferred to the Target Repair Base to await Metalsmith School. He spent one year in Astonia, Oregon with the Columbia River Group working in a large metal shop. His last two years of service were spent aboard the USS Hitchiti ATF-103 where he earned the Navy Guard Conduct Medal, the Navy Expeditionary Medal and two Meritorious Captains Masts. Following his honorable discharge, Leon helped his dad on the family farm and worked at Foremost Dairies in Appleton for five years. He then sold insurance for Rural Insurance. On November 26, 1966 Leon married Carol Mielke. In 1969, Leon started farming again with his dad and continued to do so for many years.He was dedicated to his service and was a member of VFW Post 10407 where he served as adjutant and commander and was also a part of the military honor guard. He was also a director of the National Association of Fleet Tug Sailors. Leon also volunteered his time as the secretary and president of Winnebago County DHIA, St. John's Lutheran Church elder, school board member, trustee and many years as the Church secretary, Weymont Run Golf Course director and member of the grounds committee. Leon enjoyed playing golf, fishing, helping others with projects and traveling to Navy ship reunions. Leon is survived by his wife of 58 years, Carol; three sons, Tom Maierhafer, Daniel (Birsen Ayaz-Maierhafer) Maierhafer, Doug (Amanda) Maierhafer; a grandson, Scott Howe; a granddaughter, Cecelia Maierhafer; a great-granddaughter, Eleanor Howe; a sister, Carol Murphy; a brother-in-law, Warren (Pat) Mielke; two sister-in-laws, Ruth Drews and Mary Mielke; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many, many friends.He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Melvin (Carolyn) Maierhafer, and a brother-in-law, Michael Murphy. Visitation will be held at Lewin Funeral Home on Sunday February 2, from 1:00 until 4:00 pm and on Monday at St. John's Lutheran Church, 8580 37th Ave., Fremont from 9:30 AM until the time of the funeral service. The Funeral service will be held on Monday, February 3, 2025 at 11:00 am at the Church. Pastor Paul Mose will officiate. Burial with full military rites will be held at Wolf River Cemetery, Fremont. A memorial fund has been established for St. John's Lutheran Church and NAFTS .
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