Leon Jay Givler died peacefully in Fort Worth, Texas, on Wednesday, May 3, 2017, at the age of 86.
Leon was born on June 11, 1930, in Ephrata, to Harold and Esther Givler.
He graduated from Ephrata High School in 1948 and then attended Wyomissing Polytechnic for two years. He finished his education with a master’s degree from the University of Northern Colorado.
He joined the Army in 1952. After four years as an enlisted soldier, he attended Officer Candidate School, rising to the rank of full colonel. Leon played five sports at Post Level and achieved All Star in all five. He served in the Korean and Vietnam wars and retired after 29 years of service.
He was passionate for growing roses and sharing them with the community, and enjoyed golfing and card games. He authored one book and was in the process of writing the second.
In 1960, he married Mary (Geer). Leon was accomplished at many things and considered being a father of six as his greatest achievement. In 2013, Leon and Mary moved to a retirement community in Granbury, Texas, where he enjoyed various activities and many new friends.
Leon is survived by his wife: Mary; children: Kathy Branscom of Jacksboro, Texas; Rosanne Mitchell and husband Michael of Tonto Basin, Ariz.; Perry Geer and wife Terry of Granbury, Texas; Mike Givler and wife Margaret of Weatherford, Texas; and Pam Givler of Fort Worth, Texas; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren; brothers: Lloyd (twin); and Donald; and sister: Joanne Kestner; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and son: Mike Fowler.
A memorial service was held May 6 at Coker Funeral Home in Jacksboro, Texas, with Larry Shields officiating.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the American Diabetes Association.
Online condolences may be offered at cokerfuneral.com. Coker Funeral Home, Jacksboro, Texas, handled the arrangements.
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