Leonard L. DeGering

Leonard L. DeGering

Leonard L. DeGering was born September 25, 1928 in Edgemont, S. D. and died June 23 in Lusk. He was the sixth child of Albert and Ethel DeGering, ranchers in the northern Hat Creek community.

Leonard attended the Niobrara County schools and the University of Wyoming. On September 16, 1968, he married Helen Klemke Boyd. His entire life was spent in the ranching business, having always lived on the ranch where he grew up.

He was active in several organizations, including the Farm Bureau, Congregational Church, Lions Club, Wyoming Stockgrowers Association and the National Stockman's Association. Leonard was a Mason and in 1961 was Master of Harmony Lodge No. 24 of Lusk. He was also a member of the Consistory.

For many years Leonard's principle hobbies were the collection and polishing of native rocks and gemstones and wood working. He was keenly interested in innovative ways of doing things and his ranch reflects the practical implementation of many of his ideas.

Preceding him in death were his father, one brother, and one sister. Survivors besides his wife, Helen, are three stepchildren: Jacque Boyd of Washington, D. C., David Boyd of Norfolk, Neb., and Jim Boyd of Seattle, Wash.; his mother, Ethel DeGering of Lusk; a brother, Milton of Orem, Utah; two sisters: Virginia Bryant of Potomac, Md., and Esther Higinbotham of Denver; and a brother, John of Lusk.

Services were held June 26 at the Peet Mortuary Chapel with the Rev. Roy Howell officiating. Music was played by Jane Bardo, organist, and Joy Kaltenheauser sang "The Old Rugged Cross" and "Nearer My God to Thee".

Pallbearers were Henry Wasserburger, Everett Kilmer, Charles Heumier, Cody Clark, Jim Meng, Sr. and Jim Reed.

Burial was in the Lusk Cemetery with Masonic Graveside Services. Memorial may be made in the Niobrara County Ambulance Fund.

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