af Leon Dittmar, Jr., a beloved 4th generation Texan, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2024 at the Regency Nursing Center in Schulenburg. Born on August 15, 1930, at the Sealy Hospital to Leon and Louise (Hinkel) Dittmar, Leon lived a life rich in service and dedication to his community, and above all, love of his family.

Leon was a long-time active member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, where he married Verna Nell Frank on December 21, 1957. He served on the church council in his younger years and volunteered with Men in Mission later. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he attended services every week until the last year of his life.

Leon was a local businessman as well as a true cowboy at heart. He was a rancher who managed his herd in Bernardo with unwavering commitment well into his 90s. He purchased the herd with his brother Max and later managed it with his sons Dusty and Dwight. Some of his favorite stories revolved around a memorable cattle drive he undertook with Leslie Reichardt from Cat Spring to New Ulm on horseback during World War II. He liked to recall that he was 13 years old at the time and he was paid $1/day for himself and $1/day for his horse.

Leon served his country with honor, dedicating two years of Army active duty in Austria and Germany. His military career extended into the Army National Guard, where he served for 35 years. As a mess sergeant, Leon took immense pride in planning and preparing meals for his company alongside his brother- in-law David Frank, ensuring that his fellow soldiers were well-nourished and cared for.

His belief in public service was evident through his long-standing commitment to the Columbus Fire Department, where he served for 20 years. Leon's dedication to his community extended to his roles on the Columbus City Council, the Colorado County Appraisal Review Board and the Lion’s Club. He was also a Life Member of the Colorado County Fair Association, where he served on the Board of Directors and was honored to be Co-Grand Marshal of the Colorado County Fair parade in 2001 alongside his wife, Verna Nell.

Leon knew the importance of maintaining friendships and enjoying life. Throughout his life he enjoyed hunting and the outdoors, making group trips to west Texas, Colorado, and their ranch at Sierra Blanca. He regularly enjoyed coffee and visiting with his friends at Bernardo Store, Pilsner’s Place, and Schobel’s. These gatherings were a testament how warm and sociable he was and they brought joy and camaraderie to his days.

Leon is preceded in death by his parents; his brothers and sister, Herbert, Max and Clara Menke, and by his granddaughter Erika O’Rion Dittmar.

He is survived by his loving wife Verna Nell, and sons Dusty (Susan), Dwight and his wife Chris, and his daughter Sondra Salchak and her husband Bob; grandchildren Austen Dittmar, Reagan Condon and husband Will; Andy Salchak and wife Hannah, and John Salchak. He is also fondly remembered by his Menke nephews and niece, Ivan, TJ, Ray and Wavely.

Leon Dittmar's legacy is one of kindness, hard work, and a deep love for his community, faith, and family. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Funeral service was Wednesday, November 6, 2024 at 10:00 A.M. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Co- lumbus, Texas with Pastor Alan Kethan officiating. Burial followed at Zoar Lutheran Cemetery in Mentz, Texas. Visitation was on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM at Henneke Funeral Home and at church Wednesday from 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM.

Pallbearers were members of the Columbus Volunteer Fire Department. Memorials may be given to St. Paul Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 267, Columbus, Texas 78934. Online condolences may be given at www.hennekefuneralhome.com.