Leonard Clarence Elsner

Leonard Clarence Elsner, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Calamus, Iowa, on January 23, 2025, at the age of 82.

Born on August 14, 1942, in Iron Hill, Iowa, Leonard was the beloved son of Clarence Charles Elsner and Thelma Elizabeth Steines-Elsner. Leonard's early education began in a one-room schoolhouse in rural Maquoketa, where he learned the values of hard work and community. He graduated from Elwood with his 8th grade diploma in 1956 and completed his high school education at Lost Nation in 1960. After finishing school, Leonard dedicated himself to a successful career at International Harvester in East Moline, Illinois, where he worked diligently until his retirement in May of 1993. His commitment to his work was evident, and he was proud to be a retired union member of UAW Local 1304. Leonard married the love of his life, Linda Elsner-Goodell, on November 12, 1983, in a heartfelt ceremony at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Calamus, Iowa. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family.

Leonard was a devoted father to his daughters Kathy Jo (Scott) Westerhof of Pleasant Hill, Charity (Jeff) Griebel of Calamus, Jessica (Josh Metcalf) Elsner of Davenport, and Emily (Kristen Oechsle) Elsner of Dubuque, as well as his sons William “Bud” (Angela) Elsner, Christian (Rachel) Bousselot of Wyoming, and Camdon Bousselot of Calamus. He also shared a special bond with his brother Bill (Shirley) Elsner of Stetsonville, Wisconsin, and his sisters Madonna Varner, Irma (Fred) Meyer of Maquoketa, Mary (Roger) Eichelberger of Muscatine, Kay (Duane) Hansen of Dewitt, and Jean Todtz of Goose Lake.

Leonard's heart was full of love for his grandchildren, Jacob Westerhof, Cameron and Cora Elsner, Brendan, Brianna, and Brayden Williams, Chayse Griebel, Jostin, Jorian, and Jevon Jones, Cale and Calysta Bousselot, Tynley, Leilani, and Kalia Bousselot, and Azalea Duncan. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren, including Lily, Conner, Nicholas, Paityn, Jace, and Iris, who brought immense joy to his life.

Throughout his life, Leonard was an active member of his community. He was a dedicated member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Calamus and contributed to the Calamus Lions for several years. He was known as an "Active 4-H Dad," supporting all of his children's endeavors with unwavering dedication.

Leonard had many passions, including fishing, gardening, and woodworking, a craft in which he excelled and cherished deeply. He was often in his workshop tinkering away. He was an avid birdwatcher, always ensuring that food was available for his feathered friends. Above all, Leonard treasured the time spent with his grandchildren, creating memories that will last for generations.

Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Thelma Elsner; his sister, Madonna Varner; his son, William (Bud) Elsner; and brothers-in-law, Melvin Todtz and Tommy Goodell.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. Monday, January 27, 2025, at Schultz Funeral Home in Grand Mound. A Service of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in rural Calamus. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery in Calamus.

Arrangements are in the care of Schultz Funeral Home, DeWitt. Condolences may be expressed at www.schultzfuneralhomes.com

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