Jerald W. Leander

Canton- Jerald W. Leander, 77, of Canton died Sunday morning February 21, 2016, at home.   
Jerry was born December 15, 1938, to Rev. Oscar and Erma (Waller) Leander.  He was their only son.
He is survived by the wife he treasured for more than 56 years, Deanna (Rakestraw) Leander. Other survivors include two sons:  Troy (Darryl) Leander of Canton and Todd Leander of Morton. Also surviving are three grandchildren: Ryan (Anna) Leander, Blake Leander & Karryl Lei Leander.  His sister, Harriet (Ed) Davis of Virginia, IL, also survives. He was preceded in death by one daughter-in-law, Jill Leander.
Growing up in a parsonage, Jerry moved frequently as a child whenever his father would receive a call to a new congregation. It can be tough on a kid, but Jerry chose to be easy going. He learned early, that when the Lord calls, you go. That lesson would serve him well through his life. Along the way, his parents grew their family by adopting Harriet. Family was of the highest importance to Jerry, a lesson he learned at his father's table.
Jerry graduated from High School in Gladstone, MI in 1956.  When his dad accepted a call to the Evangelical Free Church of Canton, Jerry would, once again, move with his family. It was at this new church that Jerry first set eyes on the pretty church organist, Deanna Rakestraw. She caught his eye and he won her heart.  On December 27, 1959, they were married at their church.  He loved her with his whole heart for the rest of his days.
Jerry graduated from Bradley University in 1960.  He and Deanna proceeded to build a life together. His professional career led him to C. Iber & Sons, where he worked and served as president for over 25 years. He had a passion for construction. His heart's desire was to build things that mattered or would make a positive impact on the community.  He was thrilled when his company was chosen to build the current Evangelical Free Church building in 1963, merging two things he loved.
In 1990, he began Leander Land Company that became Leander Construction, Inc.  Jerry continued building and that small family business grew. He lived to see grandsons added to the team, making it three generations of Leander men building together.
Jerry may have been the boss at the office, but he answered to the Lord above all.  He served at Canton's Evangelical Free Church in many roles including, choir director, Sunday School teacher, chairman of the board and elder. The seasonal cantatas were well attended, as faith was set to song and shared. He always offered a smile at the door and a word of encouragement.  He was quick witted but always kind. He cherished being part of the family of God and wanted others to know God's grace.
Jerry loved worship music. Riding motorcycles was another favorite leisure activity. He enjoyed a variety of sports. He was a fan of Bradley Basketball, rooted for the Chicago Bears and was loyal to the Cubs. He especially enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren play sports.
Jerry lived his life to honor God.  His integrity, loyalty and unfaltering work ethic were evidence of his faith.  He loved to help people and to teach them to help themselves.  He and Deanna cared for and kept a menagerie of orphaned, lost and rejected animals over the years. Their compassionate hearts we known to all.
He lived out the words of 1 Corinthians 16:14: "Let all that you do be done in love."
He worked to build buildings. He lived to build people embracing the teaching. "Let all things be done for building up." 1 Corinthians 14:26 (b)
He loved the Lord with all of his heart and demonstrated that love with his actions. He never turned away a life in need, man or beast. Created in the image of his Heavenly Father and saved by faith in Christ, he embraced creating and taking care of God's creation.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 25, 2016, at the Evangelical Free Church in Canton, with Revs. Bill Walden and Brandon Theobald officiating.  Visitation will be held Wednesday evening from 4-7 p.m. at the church.  Burial will be at White Chapel Memory Gardens in Canton.  Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton is in charge of arrangements.
Memorials can be made to the Evangelical Free Church of Canton.
To view Jerry’s tribute video, or to leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com