Jerry Leahy

Jerry Leahy, aged 87, passed peacefully of natural causes at home in Fairfield, Iowa on March 24, 2020 surrounded by family.

Jerry was born October 24, 1932 in Tecumseh, Nebraska, where he grew up over the Leahy family grocery store. He graduated from Tecumseh High School in 1950.

He was preceeded in death by his parents George and Irene Leahy of Tecumseh.

He is survived by wife Marjorie (VanHorne); 3 children: Roger, Jim, & Mea; 6 Grandchildren: Amber, April, Jesse, Ravon, Sean, & Sam; 3 Great Grandchildren: Julian, Adrian, and Gabriel; and 2 Brothers: Dan & Mike.

Jerry’s banking career matured as a bank examiner, then as President of 2 Iowa banks, first in Rock Rapids then in Pella, Iowa.

After helping acquire the MIU Fairfield campus in 1974, and becoming a TM teacher, Jerry served as MIU’s VP of Administration under Dr. Keith Wallace.

Then Jerry became Co-Owner and Chairman of the family business, Overland Sheepskin Co, opening stores around the country with Marge.

He loved animals, and was our ‘llama whisperer’, lovingly caring for hundreds of pet llamas at his ‘Llama Bliss Ranch’ east of Fairfield.

Jerry was strong, hardworking, capable, gentle, patient, wise, and inspiring. He was always kind to everyone.

He had a remarkable memory, and was a gifted storyteller with a great sense of humor.

Jerry and Marge shared a 69 year loving and supportive marriage. He and Marge always put their children & family first in their lives.

He lived life fully as a wonderful husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, cousin, co-worker, and friend.