Donald Robert Leffler, Sr.

Donald Robert Leffler, Sr.

1938-2025

Don, 87, of Meridian, Idaho passed away peacefully at home on July 30, 2025.

He was a Yankee Doodle Dandy and was born on July 4, 1938 to Esther (Cory) Davis and Warren Mayden in New Albany, Indiana. He was a bright student and excelled in school. Don enjoyed reading, watching movies and listening to music... during his teenage years, he was often mistaken for Elvis Presley in the 1950's.

He married Lola Freeman, his devoted wife of 65 years, on May 14, 1960. Excited to start their new lives together, the couple moved to Phoenix, Arizona with his mother, step-father and 3 brothers later that same year.

Don served in the National Guard and the U.S. Army from 1962-1966 and began a long career of painting homes and tennis courts in the Valley of the Sun. He also prepared taxes for Beneficial Tax Service.

He enjoyed Phoenix Suns basketball and camping, but hunting deer and elk all over the state of Idaho was his great passion and the highlight of each year. Don was a proud life member of the NRA and had excellent marksmanship.

In 1980, he moved his family of six to Boise in hopes of escaping the heat and began working at St. Lukes until his retirement in 2000.

He is survived by his loving wife Lola; oldest son, Donald Jr. and wife, Becky; daughter, Donna, and husband, Doug; sons: Dale, and Darrin and partner Chrissy; grandchildren: Marques and wife, Monique, Danyetta, Brice and wife, Katie, Andrew and wife, Danae, Hanna and husband, Cristian, Storm and Ashton; great-grandchildren: Isaiah, Anna, Violet, Camas, Barrett, Robie, Rosemary, Milo, Juniper, Cooper, Lydia, Nolan, Luna, Bella and Manolo; brothers: Bill and Howard Jr; sister, Patti; nephew, Rick and wife, Carolyn; and niece, Shannon.

He is preceded in death by his daughter, Debbie; mother, Esther; step-father, Howard; brother, Dick and sister-in-law, Frankie.

Don will be remembered as a man who could quote pages of Shakespeare, Clint Eastwood and Western movies, listening to Elvis, the blues and playing the kazoo. His hands were very soft and smooth and his nicknames include Dripper, Daddio, Macho and Old Tracks. He loved milky ways, milkshakes and mama's homemade chili, and his favorite drink was Coke with a straw.

He will be missed every day but his presence will be remembered in the hearts of those that loved him.

A Celebration of Life is forthcoming in the near future.