Leonard J. Marx, 92, Dickinson, ND, died Friday, April 4, 2008 at his home surrounded by his family. Leonard’s Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 am, Wednesday, April 9, 2008 at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, Dickinson, with Fr. Jerry Kautzman as Celebrant. Interment will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Dickinson military honors will be provided by the Veterans Drill Team. Visitation will be from 8 am to 9 pm, Tuesday at Ladbury Funeral Service, Dickinson with a KC Council 8839 rosary and vigil with Deacon Bob Stockert presiding at 7 pm.
Leonard was born June 11, 1915 in Garden City, KS, the son of Peter P. and Julia (Weingardt) Marx. He completed grade school in 1928 at Dodge City, KS. In 1930 at the age of 15 Leonard moved out of his parents home and went to work in Fowler, KS. He worked various jobs, such as farming and construction prior to joining the CCC’s, where he belonged from 1936 to 1939.
Leonard was drafted into the United States Army on April 11, 1942 and while in the Army went over seas to Attu Island in the Aleutian Islands. He was later stationed in San Diego, CA, where he met the love of his life, Theresa Hecker. Leonard courted her and later that year they were married on November 17, 1942. He was honorably discharged from the Army on October 25, 1945 and they moved to the Belfield area and eventually to Theresa’s family farm near Fairfield, ND.
Leonard was involved in Germans from Russia, the KC Council, the Fairfield Community Club and the Belfield American Legion. He was a very tender, loving and caring man and considerate of everyone. Leonard so loved his children and grandchildren, they could always bring a big smile to his face. He was so proud of the 65 years of marriage to Theresa. His door was always open to those who entered.
Leonard is survived by his wife of 65 years Theresa; their seven children, Keath (Maggie) Marx, Blacksburg, VA, David (Marilyn) Marx, Dickinson, Kent (Linda) Marx, Fairfield, Peter (Mary) Marx, Palm Bay, FL, Patty (Ed) Decker, Dickinson, Patrick (Kristy) Marx, Dickinson, and Allan (Lori) Marx, Belfield; 24 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; and five step-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Julia; father, Peter; son, Dennis; daughter, Janice; four grandchildren; sister, Matilda; brother, Lawrence; numerous brothers-in-law; and two sisters-in-law.
