Leo Washenberger

Leo Alan Washenberger, 63, of Webster, died unexpectedly on August 7, 2025, at his home south of Webster. Services will be held on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Fiksdal Funeral Service in Webster, with visitation one hour prior to the service.

Leo was born on January 23, 1962, to David and Beverly (Buck) Washenberger. As a child, he rode the Cass Clay truck and helped his dad deliver milk in the Day County area. He also cared for his sister, Cindy (Vogl), while his mother, Beverly, frequently had her hair done at the salon. Growing up, he worked on the farm hauling bales and taking care of cattle.

In his teenage years, Leo could often be found with friends around the fire at Hedtke’s Pass on summer nights or at the Polka Dot Bar. On October 31, 1984, he married Bonnie Schmig, daughter of Roger and Mary (Bury) Schmig. On January 1, 1985, they welcomed a daughter, Jessica. As a family, they spent many weekends camping, with one of Leo’s favorite spots being the east side camping area of Pickeral Lake. He especially loved shore fishing and ice fishing, often casting off the point on Blue Dog Lake.

Leo worked for several concrete construction crews before beginning work at Mereen-Johnson Foundry in the fall of 1985. During his years at the foundry, he earned the nicknames “mud hog” and “wild man” for his work in green sand. In the summer of 1999, he moved a trailer home to the Washenberger homestead, where he lived out the rest of his life. He was often visited there by his daughter Jessica, her family, and friends. After retiring from the foundry, Leo spent his time picking up side jobs and maintaining his land and homestead.

Leo loved music, and visitors always knew he was home when they could hear it playing loudly. He also loved to read and was often found in the middle of a book when he wasn’t outside on his backhoe or tractor. He enjoyed socializing at Pike’s or grabbing lunch at local restaurants. During the summer, he could be seen cruising in his convertible with his golden retriever, Mook, by his side.

He will be deeply missed by his family, grandchildren, and friends. Leo is survived by his brother Wayne (Lanette), sister Cindy (Brian), and daughters Jessica (Matt), Julie, and Taura. He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Beverly Washenberger, and his brother Wade Washenberger.

Fiksdal Funeral Service is entrusted with his arrangements