Ernest James Leiker (Ernie), 89, of Aurora, Colorado, passed away on December 24, 2024.
He was born on December 2, 1935 in Hays, Kansas to Jacob and Anna Leiker. He was a middle sibling with an older brother, Herb; an older sister, Marietta; and a younger sister, Darlene. While growing up and attending school at St. Joseph Military School in Hays, he enjoyed sports such as baseball and boxing. After high school he enlisted in the United States Army and served for two years.
After serving in the Army, he attended Ft. Hays State College. Around this time, he met and married Glenna Ochs of Bison, Kansas. The two moved to Colorado with a group of friends and set up their home in Denver.
Ernie and Glenna had three children: Steve, born in 1960; Marilyn, born in 1964; and Kevin, born in 1967. A fourth child, Bruce, was born in 1963; Bruce died of natural causes shortly after birth.
Ernie enjoyed a 25-year career with Montgomery Wards as a store and regional manager. His positions took him and the family to many places to live, including Grand Junction, Colorado; Cheyenne, Wyoming; and Kansas City, Missouri. While proud of his career, Ernie was most proud of the fact that he put all three of his children through college, with Steve and Kevin graduating from University of Northern Colorado and Marilyn graduating from University of Colorado.
Ernie was an avid traveler and was able to visit all 50 U.S. states. In addition, he was able to see many countries, taking numerous cruises over the years.
Ernie is survived by his wife, Glenna Leiker; and children Steve Leiker (Lynnette); Marilyn Katopodes (Jerry); and Kevin Leiker (Holly). He is also survived by three grandchildren: Kaitlyn Leiker; Jacob Brock Leiker; and Delaney Katopodes.
A Funeral Mass and Memorial will take place on Monday, December 30 at 1 pm at Garden Plaza of Aurora Senior Living and Care Community. Interment/Graveside Service will be at 11:30 am on Friday, January 3 at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver.