Lois A. (Rodenbeck) Leib

Lois A. Leib, 85, of Elkhart, died on Thursday April 15, at peace in her home.

She was born September 3, 1935, in Fort Wayne to loving parents, Elmer and Thelma Rodenbeck.

Lois was a graduate of Concordia High School and Valparaiso University, where she met her beloved husband of 58 years, Richard.

She is survived by son, Mark (Kathy) Leib of Bristol; daughter Susan (Jeffrey) Crouch of Mooresville and daughter Elle (Troy) Turley of Warsaw; grandchildren Audrey and Lewis Turley.

Upon graduation from Valpo, Lois became an English teacher.  She was also a talented actress who put theatre aside to pursue building a family as a dedicated wife and mother.  She was an active choir member at church throughout her life. She had a radio show.  She became co-owner of Leib’s Furniture and worked alongside Richard running the business for 48 years.

Lois’ interests were expansive and included gardening, bird watching, music, traveling around the world, spending time with her many diverse groups of friends, celebrating holidays with her family, attending her grandchildren’s events, and taking long walks in God’s great creation.

She was a faithful member of Faith United Methodist Church.  Over her lifetime she gave of her time, talent, and treasure to countless charities.  Church Community Services was particularly dear to her; she was a committed volunteer in their food pantry.

Lois had a light that shined like no other and inspired everyone who knew her.  She mastered her role as wife, mother, grandmother and friend.  She was tough as nails, lived life fully, loved wholly, listened intently, learned vigorously, felt openly, gave freely and loved God with all her might. To the very end she remained concerned for others before herself, full of love, grace, gratitude, joy, and beauty. We are all better for having her influence in our lives and take comfort in the belief that she is rejoicing in heaven today.

Visitation will be from 12 pm to 2 pm on Friday, April 23 at Faith United Methodist Church.  Service begins at 2 pm immediately following visitation.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Church Community Services, Faith UMC, Center for Hospice Care or any charity near one’s heart.

Online condolences may be sent at www.stemmlawsonpeterson.com