Colonel Leeper retired from the U.S. Air Force after serving his country in both World War II and the Vietnam War. Neil was a member of the Order of Daedalians, a premier organization of military pilots, as well as a member of Belleville VFW Post 1739, Belleville Elks Lodge BPOE #481, and St. Teresa Catholic Church, Belleville, IL.
Colonel Leeper was preceded in death by his parents, Mark and Rose Leeper; and a sister, Betty Leeper Cole.
He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Caroline May Leeper;
a brother, Patrick (Louise) Leeper;
a sister, Joan Picker;
a daughter, Sharon (Gaylon) Woods;
grandchildren;
and nieces and nephews.
He will be remembered by all for his kindness, subtle sense of humor, and quiet strength.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Siteman Cancer Center or the American Diabetes Association. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may call from 11a.m. to 12 noon Wednesday, March 23, 2016, at St. Teresa Catholic Church, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12 noon Wednesday, March 23, at St. Teresa Catholic Church. Burial with full military honors will be held at 2 p.m. at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO.
Condolences Left For Neil Leeper
Caroline…It saddens me greatly to hear of the death of such a dear man. Neil was commander of the 11th when David and I were at Scott and again we crossed paths at Clark AB,RPI and a second time at Scott. We were at your wedding and celebrated joyously that this dear, quiet and amazing had found such a loving and lively partner to share his life. I know you miss him sorely, but, what a wonderful life you shared together. I hope it brings you comfort to know that he touched the lives of so many people during his lifetime. My prayers are with you as you grieve and heal.
Beverly Eckert, The Villages, Florida, 32162