Richard E. Leib

Richard E. Leib, 80, of Elkhart, died on March 1st at Elkhart Hospice House.
He was born on June 25, 1935 in Elkhart to Clayton and Bertha Leib. Richard was a graduate of Elkhart High School and Valparaiso University, where he met his wife of 58 years, Lois. She survives, as well as son Mark (Kathy) Leib of Bristol, daughter Susan (Jeffrey) Crouch of Mooresville, daughter Elle (Troy) Turley of Warsaw, grandchildren Audrey and Lewis Turley, and half-sister Marilyn Niblock and her family.
Upon graduation from Valpo, Richard served a 6-month stint in the United States Army. He then became owner and operator of Leib’s Furniture Inc. in Elkhart for 48 years. Following retirement, Richard embarked on a new career: writing a column for The Elkhart Truth, which was featured on the editorial page of the paper every Sunday for over 11 years.
Richard’s interests were wide and diverse and included photography, gardening, technology and workshop projects. An avid car fan, he raced in the 1972 Cannonball New York to California Race, an event on which two movies were based. He was a member of Faith United Methodist Church.
Richard loved his family fiercely and deeply. He made a lasting impression on all who knew him. He was a creative and unique leader. To say his family and friends will miss him is an understatement. God made him one of a kind.
Visitation will be from 11 am to 1 pm Monday March 7, 2016 at Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home. Services will begin at 1 pm immediately follow visitation.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Faith United Methodist Church in Goshen, Faith Mission of Elkhart, Center for Hospice Care or the charity of one’s choice. Online condolences may be sent to www.stemmlawsonpeterson.com.