He was born on August 16, 1931 in Long Island and was the eldest son of Korbinean and Margaret Leitenberger. In 1970 Rich married Karen Sattelberg in Hempstead New York. They moved to Treadwell that year and designed and built a house and Rich’s custom meat cutting shop with a grocery store attached.
Rich was drafted into the Marines in 1951. He spent time in Japan and the Caribbean while serving. Rich was a firefighter for seven years serving as captain for one year in Baldwin, New York. Rich was a career butcher. He worked at Great American and Price Chopper in Delhi and Big M in Walton.
Rich is survived by his wife Karen, daughter Dawn Payne of Delhi, sons Michael (Amberleigh) Leitenberger of VA and Richard Leitenberger of VA. Grandchildren Ashley (Rex Safford) Meres, Brett Meres, Christopher (Kayla) Payne, Karissa (Stephen Kaminsky) Payne, William Meres, Corryna (Randy) Remblake, Brandon Manuli, Kristi (Anthony) Badolato, and Keri Leitenberger. Great grandchildren Tobin, Kollin, Grayson, Killian, Sebastian, Kacey, Nicholas, Michael and Matthew. Sister in law Rose Leitenberger and several loving nieces and nephews.
Rich was predeceased by his parents, brother Harold Leitenberger, sister Elizabeth (Ernie) Burger and daughter Michele Meres.
Rich enjoyed fishing and watching football. He was a huge fan of the Miami Dolphins. He loved seeing his friends and you could always count on Rich for a good joke or two. Rich could tell a story like no other and it was such a joy to listen to them. You could frequently spot him by the scratch off counters, or sitting on his porch. Rich loved making wreaths and with Karen’s help had Rich’s wreath stand for 25+ years. Rich will be greatly missed by his family especially by his great grandson Tobin whom he was very close to and spent a lot of time with.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Rich’s name can be made to the Treadwell Fire Department.
Per his request there will no services. There will be a celebration of life held at a later date.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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