In Memory
LeRoy Crain
It is with a profound sense of loss and a celebration of a life richly lived that we announce the passing of LeRoy Crain. LeRoy, a cherished soul, departed from this world on September 22, 2024, in South Bend, IN, at the age of 80. Born on May 19, 1944, in Linton, IN, he grew to be a man of integrity and warmth, touching the lives of all who knew him.
LeRoy was married to Linda Sue McKelvey, and to that union, three children were born. Linda Sue passed away on January 1, 1981. Then on April 10, 1982 in Wentzville, Missouri, he was united in marriage to Mary Lee Kinion. They have enjoyed 42 wonderful years of marriage. Along with his loving wife Mary Lee, he is survived by his daughter and son-in-law Lori & Don Kaiser of South Bend, his son and daughter-in-law Keith and Lori Crain of South Bend, five grandchildren, Brett (Amber) Craw, Brad (Felicia) Craw, Bryan (Cassidy) Craw, Zacary (Maddie) Crain, and Tyler (Kim) Crain, along with four great-grandchildren, Oliver, Liam, Madelyne and Charlotte. He was preceded in death by his son Kevin, sister, Patricia Hardesty Elder, and brother Frank Hardesty.
LeRoy's professional journey was marked by a remarkable tenure of 36 years as a Marketing Manager at Dexter-Axle, where his dedication and leadership were instrumental in the growth and success of the company. His colleagues remember him not just for his professional acumen but also for his genuine kindness and the ability to make every individual feel valued and heard.
Beyond his career, LeRoy was a devoted member of the Trinity Free Evangelical Church. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he served the congregation with humility and joy as an elder. His warm greetings were a Sunday staple, and his unwavering commitment to the church community will be dearly missed.
LeRoy's interests painted the picture of a man who cherished the beauty of the world both near and far. In his personal sanctuary, he was an avid grower of hostas, cultivating a dazzling array of 275 varieties with patience and care. His garden was a testament to his love for nature and his green thumb. He was an avid stamp collector and was a longtime member of the American Philatelic Society.
As much as he loved his garden, LeRoy's adventurous spirit beckoned him beyond the familiar comforts of home. He was a seasoned world traveler, exploring the nooks and crannies of the globe, as well as traversing the diverse landscapes of the United States. His travels were not merely for leisure; they were also missions of love and service. LeRoy participated in more than 20 mission trips to Africa and El Salvador and led 17 mission trips to Honduras with World Compassion Network.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 1, at Trinity Evangelical Free Church, 61770 Miami Road, South Bend, and from Noon-1:00 p.m. Wednesday. Services celebrating LeRoy’s life will follow at 1:00 p.m. Rev. Joshua Brooks, Rev. Craig Clapper, and Rev. Keith Crain will officiate. Gifts honoring LeRoy may be offered to World Compassion Network, PO Box 1152, Warsaw, IN 46581, or to Trinity Church, 61770 Miami Road, South Bend, IN 46614. Online condolences to the family may be sent to www.palmerfuneralhomes.com. Arrangements for the Crain family are under the care of the Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel, South Bend.
09/23/2024 EJS
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