Elbert Lee Leistner

It is with deep regret and much sadness to announce the unexpected passing on May 2, 2014 of our dear brother, uncle, cousin and friend, Elbert Leistner (Bert). Born in Chicago in 1937, he attended Roswell B. Mason grammar school, David G. Farragut High School and obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Teaching from Chicago Teachers College. He was Honorably Discharged from the United States Army in 1967 after serving six years in the Army National Guard.

Bert moved to Phoenix in 1964 to join in partnership with his cousin, Glenn Paulus and lifelong friend, Rudy Kwilos, to open Candid Wedding Photographers. “Mr. Bert's” excellence in wedding photography made hundreds of couples delighted with the memories that he provided. His keen sense of color, clarity and density in the color lab produced perfect pictures for thousands of couples and their families throughout his 40 year career.

He loved his flower garden which was always the showcase of the neighborhood. Bert was never alone because he shared his home lovingly through all these years with his family of adoring cats.

Elbert is survived by his brother Paul of Chattanooga, TN, his niece Judy Eaves, nephews David (Inna) and Phillip (Darlene), grand nieces Tabitha, Twila, Arielle, Anna Marie and Atira; grand nephews Nathan and Chase, cousins and many friends including Marian Kwilos, Norman, Vera and Stephanie McEwen and Rudy Kwilos.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to AAWL, Arizona Animal Welfare League, 25 North 40th St., Phoenix, AZ 85034.

A gathering of friends and family will be held on Friday, May 9, 2014 – 6-8pm at

A.L. Moore Grimshaw Morturay, 710 W. Bethany Home Rd., Phoenix, AZ

Interment, Woodlawn Cemetery, Forest Park, IL.