LeRoy Neuhardt
LeRoy A. Neuhardt, 86, of Aberdeen, SD, passed away on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Bethesda Home of Aberdeen.
LeRoy Alvin Neuhardt was born February 13, 1939, to Emil and Dorothy (Merkel) Neuhardt near Ashley, ND. He was the second of eight children raised on a farm and attended rural schools.
He helped with the family farm near Ashley, ND, until moving to Aberdeen. He married Loretta Baer on October 1, 1964. They made their home in Aberdeen, SD. He worked various jobs before working at Safeguard/Hub City (Regal Beloit) as a machinist. After over 30 years, he retired from there in 2002. LeRoy was recognized for his strong work ethic, working full-time and staying active after retirement. He ran a lawn care business for over 50 years, reliably serving many customers. Also, in retirement, he and Loretta spent winters in Yuma, Arizona, until her death in 2017.
LeRoy had a particular fondness for John Deere. He gained a reputation for his ability to tinker and repair almost anything.
LeRoy was a dedicated member of our Savior Lutheran Church, where he served as head usher for many years. He consistently opened and closed the church, prepared the sanctuary for services, and supported the congregation, many of whom were close friends. His actions reflected his lifelong commitment to the church.
Surviving LeRoy are: two children: son, Lynn Neuhardt of Eustis, FL, and daughter, Lori (Todd) Salfrank of Mina, SD; four grandchildren: Nathan (Dee) Neuhardt of Summerville, SC, Adam Neuhardt of La Mesa, CA, Courtney (Zachary) Melcher of Aberdeen, SD, and Brenden Salfrank of Mina, SD; great-grandchildren: Mazie Neuhardt, Skyler Neuhardt, and Wyatt Melcher; brother, Patrick (Natalie) Neuhardt of AZ; five sisters: Wilma Haupt of WA, Cora Burrer of SD, Dora (Chet) Lane of AZ, Paulette Schaeffer of AZ, and Deb (Al) Holzer of AZ; four sisters in law: Mary Gruenstein, Fran Mastel, and Marcie Welch, all of Aberdeen, and Roberta (Dave Anderson) Clemen of Apple Valley, MN; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Loretta; parents, Emil and Dorothy; sister, Eldora McElroy.