James Leete, Farmersburg, Iowa, July 14, 2022

James (Jim) Leete passed away, Thursday, July 14, 2022 at Veterans Memorial Hospital, Waukon following a lengthy illness. Jim was born April 1, 1946 in Volga City to Don and Lucy (Emerson) Leete. Jim was baptized, received his first holy communion and was confirmed at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Volga City. Jim graduated from Central Community High School with the Class of 1964. Jim married Constance (Connie) Erbe on October 14, 1972 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Monona.

Jim was employed by Jerry Stence at Jerry’s Feed & Livestock. He founded James Leete Trucking in 1980 and continued in that business until 2000. Following ownership of the trucking business, Jim worked as a carpenter and welder for Dean Franzen at Pro­Build. In addition, he assisted Connie with management of Leete’s All Occasion Catering.

Jim enjoyed collecting antiques, especially anything gas and oil related. Jim was very mechanical and enjoyed inventing, building and repairing anything in his shop. Jim, with the assistance of his father-in-law, George Erbe, built several to-scale model 2-cylinder tractors and a threshing machine. He enjoyed many years of traveling to area steam engine shows with the collection. Jim was proud of the vintage replica filling station he built and the 1800’s log cabin he restored, which were both displayed in his yard. In addition to those interests, Jim enjoyed car cruises, gardening, camping, boating and caring for his yard. Jim’s idea of a nice vacation generally involved something work related.

Jim had been active with the Froelich Foundation and volunteered many hours in promoting their mission. Jim was an active member, devoted volunteer and supporter of St. Patrick Cathloic Church and had served on the Parish Council. Jim had also been a member of the Farmersburg Fire Department. Jim, along with Connie enjoyed entertaining and hosted many class reunions and other celebrations at their home.

Jim is survived by his wife, Connie; special grand nephews and niece that brought much happiness to his life, Ty, Ian, Ethan, Jax and Anna and a host of relatives and friends.

Preceding Jim in death were his parents, Don and Lucy Leete and mother and father-in­law, George and Mary Erbe.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am on Wednesday, July 20, 2022 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Monona, Iowa with a two hour visitation from 9-11 am before Mass at the church on Wednesday. Rev. Martin Coolidge will be the Celebrant.

Burial will follow at St. Patrick Catholic Cemetery, Monona, Iowa.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Monona, Iowa is helping the family with the arrangements.



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