Jack Bernard Leyer

Jack Bernard Leyer, 76, passed away in his home surrounded by his family on Sunday, April 11, 2010, in Racine, WI. Jack was a lifelong resident of Wisconsin. He was born in Steven’s Point on October 15, 1933, to the late Charles and Dorothy (nee: McDonald) Leyer. He was raised in Milwaukee and graduated from Boys Tech High School in 1951. He then joined The State of Wisconsin National Guard, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant.

Jack spent his professional career in sales.  Driven by his fondness of interactions with customers and peers,  his early years included employment in the trades as a tile setter where his attention to detail started to develop. He was later employed by Adelman’s Laundry and Borden’s Dairy where his passion for customer service and people contact really grew.  

He then found his true calling as a salesman specializing in business forms. He was a Certified Forms Consultant and was employed as a salesman at Service International Business Forms, Arvey Business Forms and Midwest Business Graphics. He was an owner and partner at both FORMost Printing and Distributors Printing Services, Inc. In addition to his sales career, Jack enhanced his community by helping others throughout his life. 

He did volunteer work with the Scouting program, Giese Elementary School and Kiwanis Club of Greater Racine.  Later in life, he assisted guiding paramedic students in communication skills based on his personal life experiences and at Saint Mary’s Medical Center Men’s Auxiliary where his quick smile and charm offered a comfortable and caring atmosphere.

Jack was married on July 29, 1978, at River Bend Nature Center, to the former Ms. Colleen Meredith.  Jack is survived by his wife Colleen, his best friend and partner for over 30 years; children: Kathleen (Paul) Pflieger, Gary Leyer, Teresa (Melvin) Both, Gene (Sam Hyang) Meredith, Gregory Leyer, Robb (Becky) Meredith, and Janel Frazier; 15 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; brother, Dennis (Karen) Leyer; sister, Betty Bowes; and many special nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear long term friends too numerous to mention by name.

In addition to his parents, Jack was preceded in death by his sister, Jean; and his brothers, Bill, Bob and Harry.

Jack enjoyed golfing; travelling; watching any type of sporting competition; reading – especially historical books and playing cards with family and friends. Above all, he loved being surrounded by his entire extended family and comforted with the watchful medical care of son Gary.

In accordance with Jack’s wishes, cremation will take place. In celebration of Jack’s life, a memorial visitation will occur on Wednesday, April 14, 2010, from 4-7 p.m. at Maresh-Meredith Funeral Home. There will also be a visitation on Thursday, April 15, 2010, from 10-11 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 745 Main St., Racine, WI.   A memorial service will be celebrated at 11 a.m. with Pastor Brad Van Fossen officiating. A reception and luncheon will immediately follow at Roma Lodge.  In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Kiwanis Club of Greater Racine or to a charity of your choice have been suggested.

A heartfelt note of thanks to Dr. Pierce-Ruhland and Hospice Alliance staff -- especially to the compassionate caregiver Mandy and nurse Darlene.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine  (262) 634-7888