Leo J. Stegmiller, 91, Dickinson, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, June 20, 2018 with his family by his side at St. Luke’s Home, Dickinson. Leo’s Mass of Christian Burial will be at 9 a.m., Tuesday, June 26, 2018 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, New Hradec with Fr. William Ruelle as celebrant. Interment will take place at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery. Military Honors will be provided by the Dickinson American Legion Post 3 Honor Guard. Visitation will be Monday, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. with a rosary and vigil at 7 p.m. at Ladbury Funeral Service. Visitation will continue one hour prior to services at the church.
Leo J. Stegmiller was born on January 8, 1927 on the family farm near Flasher to Joseph and Edith (Friesz) Stegmiller. Leo served in the United States Army in 1946, being stationed in Osaka, Japan for seven months. He then returned home to help his father on the farm. He married the love of his life, Rufina Koch, in 1960. They took over the family farm where they raised their four boys. They lived on the farm for 52 years before moving to New Hradec.
Leo enjoyed dancing the polka and waltz with his wife and family. He loved to work on his wire as he did up until the day he passed away. Leo had such a friendly and kind spirit, always smiling and laughing. His legacy of love, laughter, and kindness is carried in the hearts and lives of all who loved and knew Leo.
Leo will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 57 years, Rufina; children, James, Dickinson, Anton, Mandan, Nick, New Hradec, and William (Brenda Rogness), Dickinson; grandchildren Melissa (Ricky Bean), Cassie (Dustin Kohler), Candice (Caleb) Burgard, Shane, Sierra, Matthew, and Marshall; four great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Margie and Leona; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Leo was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Edith; brothers, Joe, Manuel (Francis), Gene (Emma), and Henry Stegmiller; sisters, Francis (Jake) Hatzenbuhler and Pauline (George) Bohl.
