Leo L. Stancel

Leo L. Stancel

Marion

Leo L. Stancel, 88, of Marion, Iowa, passed away on Friday, February 23, 2024, at Winslow House in Marion, surrounded by his family. In agreement with his wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no services at this time. Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Marion is assisting the family.

Leo was born on July 5, 1935, at home in Oxford, Iowa, the son of Bessie Fisher. He was a farmhand before serving honorably in the United States Air Force. On March 20, 1959, Leo was united in marriage to Jean Ann Walter in Las Vegas, Nevada. He worked for Rockwell Collins until his retirement in 1990. After retirement Leo found a passion in restoring John Deere tractors. He owned and restored many antique tractors. His pride and joy was driving his tractor and string of toys following behind in small town parades. We always knew where we could find him, either in his shop or in his yard. Leo became well known for repairing lawn mowers, snowblowers, and other small engines. He was always available to help family, friends or anyone who dropped by his shop. Leo looked forward to every spring to plant the garden with his family. He would sometimes get a little carried away with his tiller and chew up a few plants. We always knew his heart was in the right place. Leo enjoyed spending time with family, feeding birds, riding his John Deere bike, square dancing, card club, and two-cylinder tractor club. Leo will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Leo is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife of 64 years, Jean of Marion; son, Doug (Chris) Stancel of Marion; daughter, Pam Skilling of Marion; four grandchildren, Blaine (Cecilia) Moyer, Brandt Skilling, Gitana (Garrett) Kehoe, and Ryley Stancel; six great-grandchildren; half-brother, Richard Stancel; sister-in-law, Shirley Wolmutt; many nieces and nephews; and three furry kitties, George, Sebastian, and Honey.

He was preceded in death by his mother; sister, Irene Hutton; son-in-law, Kirk Skilling; and grandson, Blake Moyer.

Thank you, Dad, for teaching us that hard work can be rewarding and to always finish a project. On behalf of Jean, Doug, and Pam, we would like to thank Leo Stancel for everything. There are no words to express the gratitude we feel. Thank you, Dad from the bottom of our hearts. Rest in Peace.

Memorials in Leo’s memory may be directed to Critter Crusaders, P.O. Box 10111, Cedar Rapids, IA 52410-0111.

Condolences and cards may be sent to the family, in care of Murdoch Funeral Home, 3855 Katz Drive, Marion, IA 52302.

Please share a memory of Leo at www.murdochfuneralhome.com under obituaries.