09/09/2025
Martin J. Leipolt
Martin James Leipolt went home peacefully to Jesus on September 8, 2025, at the age of 86 years old with his wife lovingly by his side. Martin, known as Marty by his family and friends, was born on September 3, 1939, in Milwaukee and lived with his family here in Franklin. He was the beloved husband of his wife Leona VandeVrede for nearly 19 years, having married on October 14, 2006. Dear father of Margaret Mladenovich, Tammy (late Dennis) Miller, Matthew (Niyara) Leipolt, and Chad (Dorothy) Leipolt. Proud grandpa of Hannah, Aaron, Ryan and Casey. Brother of Kenneth (late Lynn) Leipolt and Dawn (Jerry) Hathaway.
Further survived by loving stepchildren, relatives and friends.
Son of the late Martin Scott and Catherine Margaret (née McCredie) Leipolt. Also was preceded in death by his first wife Felecia Mary (née Bodovinac) Leipolt.
From an early age, Marty had the extraordinary gift of the ability to look at something, understand how it worked, and often improve it. He was a natural builder, problem-solver, and lifelong learner who could teach himself just about anything he set his mind to. Most recently, he wanted to learn how to weave tapestry. He not only taught himself how to weave, but he also built himself the loom to do so.
For many years, Marty worked as a mechanic, primarily repairing semi-trucks. However, his employer quickly recognized his abilities went far beyond fixing what was broken. Marty often designed and built tools and even bigger solutions for problems that didn’t yet have an answer - creating things that didn’t exist but were needed to help the company thrive. Whenever a challenge arose, he was their go-to person, trusted to find a way forward.
Marty also found great joy in working outdoors, where his creativity thrived in his gardens and landscaping. His yard became a living canvas, filled with beauty and care, where flowers, plants, and design came together in perfect balance. Neighbors and passersby often paused to admire his work, sharing words of appreciation for the beautifully inviting spaces he created.
When he wasn’t building, designing, or creating, he often would plan road trips across the country with Leona. Together, they shared a love of adventure, exploring the open road and discovering hidden gems tucked away off the beaten path. Those journeys were filled with laughter, stories, and memories that will be cherished forever.
His love for his church was another cornerstone of his life. He was one of the original members of Risen Savior Lutheran Church having been here as it was being built. Over the years, he served faithfully on the Building and Grounds Board and used his creativity in countless ways - from designing and making banners to constructing the original church sign. His devotion was seen not only in what he built but also in the compassion he shared. On a knitting loom, he wove 150 hats to send to Ukraine, created prayer shawls for the congregation, and together, Marty and Leona lovingly designed and knitted small critters to bring comfort to orphans in Ukraine affected by war. These gifts were sent with prayers of encouragement tucked into every package. Marty’s fingerprints were on the very foundation of the church itself, a lasting reminder of his faith and commitment.
But Martin’s talents went beyond what he could learn and build. He had a patient and generous heart, always eager to share his knowledge with others. Friends and family often marveled at his resourcefulness and admired the way he approached challenges with both creativity and persistence. Leona fondly recalled a story that perfectly captures his spirit of action and generosity: while visiting her son’s house, the family casually began talking about needing cabinets for the garage and before long, he and his stepson were on their way to pick up lumber. By the end of the day, brand new cabinets stood finished in the garage. That was Marty - never one to just talk about an idea when he could bring it to life.
Above all, Marty will be remembered for his deep love for his family. He poured his energy not only into the things he built with his hands but also into the relationships he nurtured with his heart. His presence filled every space with encouragement, wisdom, and warmth.
Martin was deeply loved by his family and friends, and his absence will be felt in countless ways. We will miss his wisdom, his steady care, and the quiet yet powerful ways he showed his love. Though our hearts ache that he is no longer here with us, we take comfort in knowing he is now in the presence of Jesus filled with joy. We look forward with gentle hope to the day we will be together with him again in heaven.
Visitation will be held at Risen Savior Lutheran Church (9501 W. Drexel Ave., Franklin) on Friday, September 12 from 9:30-10:15AM with the funeral service beginning at 10:30AM. Burial to follow at Arlington Park Cemetery.
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