Robert W. Leathem, 90, of Bucyrus died of cardiac arrest on Friday, January 12, 2018 at Bucyrus Community Hospital.
He was born in Martel, Ohio on August 20, 1927 to the late Charles R. and Hazel G. (Roesch) Leathem. The Leathem family made their way to Bucyrus and Bob graduated from Bucyrus High School in 1946. Bob loved cars and was a gifted mechanic. He began working for A.L. Holloway Sales and Service at the age of 14 and also worked for the Wingates, Crows, and Studer-Perrin over the years. In 1975, Bob went to work at Bucyrus Blades until his 1990 retirement.
A proud veteran of the US Army, Bob served two times, from 1946-1947 and 1952-1954. He worked as a mechanic and was honorably discharged with the rank of Corporal. Bob was a member of American Legion Post 181, AmVets Post 27, VFW Post 1068, Moose Lodge 669 and the former Eagles Aerie 530. He was also a member of Bucyrus United Methodist Church.
Bob will best be remembered as a kind man always willing to lend a helping hand. He gave many a ride to fellow Kettle Run residents and loved collecting model cars, especially those he enjoyed working on the most. At home, he watched a lot of television, seldom missing his favorite morning game shows, American Pickers or an Ohio State or Indians game.
Bob is survived by his sister and caregiver, Joy Keller of Bucyrus; five children, Gregory (Bonnie) Leathem of Bellevue, Jeffrey (Lou Ann) Leathem, Pat (Carol) Leathem, both of Pennsylvania, Karen (Mark) Griswold of Upper Sandusky, and Bobbly Leathem; 10 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; and his nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brother, Clarence; infant brother, Dale; and brother-in-law, Richard Keller.
Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, January 16 at 2:00 pm with Pastor Mike Corwin officiating at Wise Funeral Service where friends may call prior to the funeral from 12 Noon-1:50 pm. Burial will follow the service in Oakwood Cemetery where military rites will be given by the US Army and American Legion Post 181 Honor Guards.
Memorial donations made payable to Gifts for Yanks or Bucyrus UMC can be given at the funeral home. Memories and photos can be shared on Bob’s tribute page at www.wisefuneral.com.