Russell "Russ" Eugene Leeser

It is with great sadness that the family of Russell Eugene Leeser, 97, announce his passing. He was born to Gifford and Ilah Leeser in Bellevue, Michigan and passed away peacefully April 12, in Greeley, CO, with his daughter Kelly by his side.

He spent his childhood in Bellevue and graduated salutatorian from Bellevue HS in 1945. It was in HS that he started dating June Lawerence. He joined the Navy and served his country from 1946-1948 and was honorably discharged. He and June would go on to marry on May 16, 1948, and were together for 72 years until her passing in September 2020. After his military service, he went to the University of Michigan on the GI Bill where he graduated with a chemical engineering degree.

 His career turned out to be in petroleum engineering and they lived in Louisiana and Texas for his work, before settling in Littleton Colorado where they remained for over 50 years. While living in Dallas, Tx, their two children were born-Mark Warren in 1959 and Kelly Lynn in 1961. Russ was a very hard worker, but also enjoyed past times such as fishing, tying flies, hunting, cards, dominoes and wood working. He was extremely handy and basically remodeled their entire house in Littleton over the years. He passed on his love of fly fishing to his son-in-law, Mike, and grandson, Tyler. But what Russ loved the most was music, and he was an extremely gifted musician. He played several instruments but enjoyed the tenor saxophone the most. He was in a dance band in his younger years and as his passion for music developed, he created a music room in his house. He passed on his saxophone talent to many in his family.

After the passing of his wife, he agreed to move to Greeley, CO to be closer to Kelly and Mike and their family. He enjoyed many special family events while living there and was well loved and taken care of in his final years by his family, the caring staff at The Lodge and the incredible team with Optimal Hospice. His final couple years were challenging, but he charmed those around him with his kindness and sense of humor and had a smile on his face most of the time.

Russ will forever be remembered by his children Mark in Texas, and Kelly (Mike) Nichols in Greeley, CO. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren: Leah (Sean), Russell (Mia), Becky, Andrew, Allison (Esteban), Tyler (Meredith) and Grant. He also leaves behind five great grandchildren, one brother, one sister-in law and numerous nieces and nephews.

As per Russ’s wishes, no services are planned. He will be cremated and his ashes returned to Michigan to be buried next to his beloved wife in the Bellevue Cemetery.