Leander Henry Havermann

Leander Henry Havermann, age 80, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 surrounded by loved ones, in Mission Hill, South Dakota. 

Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 13, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m., at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Menominee, Nebraska. 

A Funeral Mass, conducted by Fr. James Keiter, will be held Thursday, August 14, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Boniface Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Yankton.

Leander Henry Havermann was born on July 20, 1945, at home in Menominee, Nebraska, to Joseph and Gertrude (Albrecht) Havermann. Leon was one of eight children, he grew up as a devoted member of St. Boniface Catholic Church, where he was actively involved.

He completed his first eight years of school in Menominee, then continued for two years of High School in Crofton, Nebraska. Leon enjoyed playing baseball for Menominee and spent countless hours riding his beloved horse, Flicka. Many evenings, he would ride to the river and fish, sometimes camping overnight with Flicka by his side. His sister, Anita, quoted their mother saying, “She didn’t have to worry about Leon because she knew Flicka would take good care of him.”

In his youth, Leon also helped run the family dairy, distributing milk to neighbors and the Nu Cheese Plant in Hartington, Nebraska.

Leon met Cathy Pietz in 1965, and they were married the following year in Denver, Colorado. Where they would go on to raise six children together. While living there Leon worked for his brother-in-law at a furniture store before starting his own drywall and construction business. They later returned to Nebraska, where Leon expanded his construction work, serving many farmers and towns across Nebraska and South Dakota. He often managed large crews but eventually chose to focus on local projects so he could remain closer to home and family.

In 1978, Leon and Cathy parted ways. He later settled in the Yankton area, where he met and married Karen Novak. Their marriage brought two more children into Leon’s life, making him the proud father of eight. Leon and Karen shared an active role in their Catholic parish, where faith was central to their family life.

He worked a variety of odd jobs for local farmers, enjoyed card games, fishing, hunting, riding his bike, and spending time outdoors. Leon was a man of simple pleasures and steadfast character. Known for his ever-present smile and easy conversation, he cherished time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Leon loved being surrounded by family and friends, creating lasting memories through both everyday moments and special occasions.

Leon is survived by his children: Angela (Joe) Suing; Joseph (Brittany Foreng) Havermann; Julia (Alfred Mutua) Havermann; Dan Havermann; Cynthia (Brandon) Novak; David Havermann; Angie Mensch; and Amber Havermann; 21 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren. Siblings: Anita Gentrup; and David Havermann.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Karen Novak; his parents, Joseph and Gertrude Havermann; his brothers, Norbert, Ed, and Ray Havermann; his sisters, Mary Weinandt and Rita Hoesing; and grandchildren, Hanna Havermann and Lincoln Hilt. He is also remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews, and friends whose lives he touched. Leon’s life was defined by hard work, devotion to family, and a deep faith in God. He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.