Leland R. Davis

MORRISON – Leland R. Davis, 96, formerly of Sterling, died Wednesday, May 8, 2019, at Resthave Nursing Home, Morrison.

Leland was born May 3, 1923, in Sterling, the son of Ralph and Bessie (Hellem) Morton. He served in the United States Army during World War II as a Private First Class. He received the Purple Heart and Bronze Star. He married Alice Burns on January 30, 1945, in Sterling at St. John Lutheran Church, Sterling. She preceded him in death on August 13, 2013. Leland held all offices at the VFW through many years. He was a lifelong member of St. John Lutheran Church in Sterling, where he also served as a council member, Sunday school teacher, and superintendent. He was a choir member from his youth through adulthood.

Survivors include two daughters, Barbara J. Johnson of Sterling and Diana L. (Dan) Mallie of New Boston; a son, Timothy L. (Gayle) Davis of Streator; five grandchildren, Jessica (Dave) Hall of Palmer Springs, CO, Kim (Josh) Matsko of Charlottesville,VA, Natalie (Tim) Hinson of Zeeland, MI, Rhonda (Matt) Elder of Belvidere, and Ross Mallie of Silvis; eight great-grandchildren, Waylon Hall, Tyus Hall, Conner Hinson, Taylor Hinson, Carter Hinson, Tristen Hinson, Sabrina Elder, and Sydnie Elder.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Alice; and one brother, Richard, in infancy.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, May 14, 2019, at St. John Lutheran Church in Sterling, with Reverend Jacob Gawlik, pastor, officiating. Burial will be at Oak Knoll Memorial Park, Sterling, will full military rites. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. prior to services at the church.

A memorial has been established to St. John Lutheran Church, Sterling and Resthave Nursing Home.

Arrangements were completed by Schilling Funeral Home and Cremation, Sterling. Condolences may be sent to schillingfuneralhome.com.