Howard Leatherman

It is with heavy hearts we share the peaceful passing of Howard D Leatherman who went home to the Lord March 22nd, 2025, at the age of 91. Born in Wadsworth December 27th, 1933, to parents Wilbur and Grace (Beard) Leatherman. 

Howard was one of seven children. He graduated from Wadsworth High School in 1953. Howard was president of his class and the quarterbacl< of the football team. Howard joined the Army in 1954. After basic training in Fort Lee, VA he returned home to marry the love of his life Nancy Ellen (Love) Leatherman in 1955. He was stationed in Anchorage, Alaska where he finished his military service in 1956.

After returning home from his service in the Army, Howard worked as a manager at Woolworth's Company and managed Ben Franklin (5 and 10) right here in his hometown of Wadsworth. Howard went on to get his real estate brokers license and his insurance license which he used to start his own real estate company and insurance agency, Tri­ County Reality and Insurance. Howard was the first to bring a national real estate franchise to Wadsworth, Century 21, which he expanded to three offices in the tri-county area.

Howard had many interests in the Wadsworth community including being a member of Grace Lutheran Church, Lions club, Blue Ribbon Investment Club, Midway Estates, The American Legion Post 170, VFW Post 1089, a 50-year charter member of the Wadsworth Moose Lodge 2070, Chamber of Commerce, and Coordinated the Blue Tip Parade for several years. Howard also loved playing golf, farming and for many years coaching the Red Skins Pee Wee football team. Howard loved cheering on his children and grandchildren at their many different sports and school activities.

Howard and Nancy were high school sweethearts. Nancy was the homecoming queen in 1954. They celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in February. They have 4 children. A daughter Brenda and 3 sons Kenneth (Tammie), Steven, Jeff (Sandy) all of Wadsworth. Howard was an awesome grandpa to seven grandchildren: Brooke (Rich), Nancy, Jessie (Eric), Holly, Kevin, Lindsey and Taylor. Two great grandsons, Cade and Jake.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Brenda, siblings Clyde, Wayne, Florence (Willer), and Ruth (Winkler).

His kindness, unselfishness and sense of humor will live on through his loving wife, children, grandchildren and friends.

Memorial services will be held at Wadsworth Woodlawn Cemetery Pavilion off of Beck Street, May 10th, 2025 at noon, interment to follow the service. Lunch will be provided for family and friends following the service. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in his honor to Acme Lutheran Church or the Wadsworth Salvation Army.