Nikolaus Leicht

Nikolaus Leicht, Jr., 76, of Mansfield, died Wednesday, November 23, 2011 at his home. Born June 15, 1935 in Tomaschanzi, Yugoslavia, he was the son of Nikolaus and Magdalena (Bogner) Leicht, Sr. He came to the United States in 1951 and was a veteran of the United States Army. Nikolaus retired from AK Steel and was a member of the Mansfield Leiderkranz. A former pilot, he obtained his flying license in the 1970’s. He enjoyed working in his yard, fishing, reading and watching old movies. An avid motorcyclist, Nikolaus loved to travel. He was a handyman who was always there to help his friends. In his free time, he loved spending time with his grandson, Croix and neighbors, Bill and Clete.

He is survived by his daughters, Linda (Brad) Sweval and Annette Smith, both of Mansfield, and Carol (John) Buffington of Millerstown, PA; grandchildren, Croix Sweval, Talisa Shendal, Travis Groscost, and Ashley Smith; great grandchildren, Teya and Tauren Shendal; brothers, Stefan Leicht of Austria, Christian (Carol) Leicht of Galion, and Peter (Mary) Leicht of Mansfield; sisters, Katharina (Nikolaus) Ries and Anna (Martin) Bohlan, both of Mansfield; and numerous nieces and nephews. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Josef Leicht.

Friends may call Thursday, December 1, 2011 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Diamond St. Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 S. Diamond St., Mansfield. A memorial service will follow at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home conducted by Pastor Pentti Maki. Memorial contributions may be made to the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church or the Boy Scouts of America.