Michael James Leif

Michael James Leif, lovingly known as “Red” and “Papa,” passed away on February 17, 2026, in Lincoln at the age of 67. Born on August 19, 1958, in Lincoln, Michael spent his entire life rooted in the community he loved, especially the northeast Lincoln neighborhood where he was raised.

Mike was the son of Clarence “Bud” and Mildred Leif. He grew up alongside his siblings Barbara, David, and Daniel, forming the strong family bonds that would shape the rest of his life. He attended St. Patrick’s Catholic School and later Northeast High School, where he built lifelong friendships and developed the work ethic — and the determination — that would define him.

For 34 years, Mike dedicated himself to his career at Dworak Plumbing. He took immense pride in his work and was known not just for his skill, but for his willingness to help others. If something was broken, Mike believed it could be fixed — and preferably fixed his way. He approached problems with patience, grit, and just enough stubbornness to see the job through. Plumbing wasn’t just a job to him — it was a craft, and he worked hard every single day.

In 1998, Mike married Sharon, the love of his life. With that marriage, he proudly stepped into the role of stepfather and, eventually, an extraordinary grandfather. As “Papa,” he found his greatest joy. He built marshmallow guns, organized epic water balloon and water gun fights, pulled the kids on tubes at the lake, and made sure every gathering was filled with laughter. He never called his grandchildren by just their given names — each one earned a special nickname from Papa, a small but meaningful sign of the bond he shared with them. He didn’t just spend time with his grandchildren — he created memories they will carry forever.

Mike had a deep love for cars, especially Chevys. His pride and joy was his ’68 Chevy Camaro — classic, powerful, and meticulously cared for. He could often be found tinkering in the garage, convinced that whatever he was working on just needed “a little adjustment.” Whether he was fixing something that wasn’t broken or refusing to read instructions because he “already knew,” his stubborn independence was part of his charm.

He and Sharon cherished their time at their cabin in Alma on Harlan County Reservoir. The cabin was more than a getaway — it was a gathering place filled with fishing trips, tubing adventures, sunsets over the water, and long evenings spent together. Many of the family’s most treasured memories were made there.

Mike loved playing cards and board games, particularly 65, Left Right Center, and Five Crowns, where his competitive streak was always on full display. He enjoyed cooking, grilling, and hosting family gatherings — and no celebration was complete without his homemade ice cream. He stuck to the classics, perfecting them the same way he approached everything in life: with consistency, confidence, and no need to change what already worked.

A true outdoorsman, Mike was a nature lover who spent countless hours hunting and fishing, finding peace in the quiet of the outdoors. Some of his best days were spent in the field or by the water, often with his beloved hunting dog, AJ, by his side.

Mike lived by a simple but powerful motto: “Work Hard. Play Hard. Life is too short.” And he did exactly that. He worked with dedication, loved fiercely, and embraced every chance to make life fun.

He was preceded in death by his brother, David Leif; his mother, Mildred Leif (Eschen); his father, Clarence “Bud” Leif; and his faithful hunting companion, AJ.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sharon; his children Sheena Revell (Peter), Kyle Stuefer (Allison), and Travis Stuefer (Amy), and cherished grandchildren; his siblings Barb Luft (Rod) and Dan Leif (Michelle); and many nieces and nephews who will forever remember his humor, generosity, strong opinions, and larger-than-life presence.

Michael’s legacy lives on in the stories told around card tables, in the sound of laughter at family gatherings, in the smell of something grilling, in a cold beer after a long day, and in every lesson he taught about working hard and enjoying life while you can. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.