Leonard J. Neukirchen

Leonard James Neukirchen, age 86, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2026 surrounded by his family and loved ones. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, who will be truly missed by all.
He was born August 22, 1940 in Glidden, Wisconsin to John and Elizabeth (Hildebrandt)
Neukirchen. Leonard married Elaine (Hammel) on October 18,1983 at the Washington DC Temple. He had a strong conviction for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and instilled his belief in God with all of his children. He was an avid outdoorsman who could be found hunting, fishing, trapping, snowshoeing, taking regular family trips to lake Namakagon, and enjoying nature any chance he could.
He also found great joy in cooking a one-of-a-kind fish fry; especially when it meant bringing family and friends together. He previously worked as a dog groomer, owned a wood working shop (‘Len’s Wood’n Things’), and then retired from the Nekoosa/Port Edwards Paper Companies after 43 years. Upon retiring, Leonard was able to enjoy even more time with his family and friends. It was obvious that there wasn’t
much he needed in order to be happy, and he had a way of reminding those around him that the best parts of life aren’t things you can buy, but it’s the people you share time with.
He is survived by his loving wife, Elaine; his children, Kenny (Kelly) Neukirchen, Kris Neukirchen, Jason (Vicki) Nekirchen, David Neukirchen, Neal (Brittany) Neukirchen, Jared Neukirchen, Amanda (Justin) Rogers, and his daughter-in-law Heather. His siblings; James Neukirchen, Mary Neukirchen, Ann (Cal) Archer, and Michael (Michele) Neukirchen; as well as many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by 18 grandchildren: Matt, Trevor, Taylor, Paige, Nicole, Natasha, Katie, Ryan, Eric, Nina, Leonard, Fletcher, Emmit, Everett, Austin, Parker, Briggs, and Vienna; as well as several step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He is proceeded in death by his loving parents (John and Elizabeth), brothers (Dennis, John and Thomas), son (Kevin), grandson (Alex), granddaughter (Brier); as well as several other close friends and extended family members who passed on before him.

Though he is no longer with us, his memory will live on in the woods and waters he loved, around the table at a fish fry, in the laughter of his grandchildren, and in the hearts of everyone who knew him.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints with Bishop Craig Flinders presiding. visitation will be at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service.

There is no doubt he will be deeply missed and forever loved.