In loving memory of

Leon R. Pralle
June 24, 1935 - January 30, 2019

Leon R. Pralle, 83, of Latimer, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, January 30, 2019, at Mercy Medical Center - North Iowa in Mason City. He was born June 24, 1935, to William F. and Erma B. (Freie) Pralle, at their farmstead north of Latimer.

He graduated from Franklin Consolidated High School with the class of 1953. Leon was united in marriage to Janice Keepf in 1956 at the United Methodist Church in Hampton. Following marriage, they began farming together north of Latimer. Their farming operation included feeding cattle, hogs, and some laying hens. Corn, soybeans, oats and alfalfa were their primary crops.

Leon was an avid collector of John Deere tractors, literature, wrenches, signs, and memorabilia. He worked for Latimer Auction and had been to hundreds of auctions all over the U.S. In earlier years, he enjoyed golfing and snowmobiling. Leon was also an active member of Immanuel United Church of Christ for 57 years. He enjoyed his church family and Philathea, a service organization. Leon served as an Elder and Deacon.

He was a long-time member and past president of the Franklin County Historical Society, past president of the Franklin County Pork Producers, past VP of Franklin County Farm Bureau, a devoted supporter of the Franklin County Fair where he served on the board for 10 years and volunteered at "Grandpa's Farm" and "Pleasant Hill."

Leon is survived by his sons: Scot (Michelle) Pralle of Medina, MN; Tod (Dyanne) Pralle of Hampton, IA; daughters: Sondra Pralle of Sonoma, CA; Dawn (David) Hanson of Des Moines, IA; grandchildren: Cory, Megan, Anne, and Dana; and niece: Lea Keepf of Kapaa, HI. He was preceded in death by his wife of nearly 58 years, Jan; brother, Kenny Pralle; and granddaughter, Kristen Pralle.

Tributes

cynthia wrote on Sep 10, 2019:

"I was sorry to read about the passing of Mr. Leon. Death was never part of God's plan for mankind. Please accept my deepest sympathies. May the God of comfort give you peace during this most difficult time. Sincerely, Cynthia "

Jerry Dreyer wrote on Feb 5, 2019:

"Sorry to hear this sad news. May your happy memories sustain you through these difficult days. Leon always was a strong supporter of every project good for the community. "

Gary Teerlinck wrote on Feb 4, 2019:

"Like so very many of the John Deere collectors, I have been blessed by Leon?s friendship the past several years. Not only did Leon have a passion and knowledge that was second to none, he was truly as nice and humble a man as one would would ever meet. You will be deeply missed by all of us."

Terry & Judi Hertle wrote on Feb 3, 2019:

"We new Leon through Corn Items club and collecting toys and send our sincere sympathy to all the family. He will be missed. Terry & Judi Hertle "

Lynn and Lou Stayner wrote on Feb 2, 2019:

"We are so,sorry to hear of Leon's passing. He had been a friend for many years. We used to visit back and forth. Scot and Todd are about the same age as our kids. The kids had a lot of fun together. I remember them playing in the ashes one night and had to be cleaned up before we could go home. All six kids were playing in the ashes. "

Dan Chopiak wrote on Feb 2, 2019:

"I am so Thankful I took the time to meet Leon last April and got to spend a few hours at his place talking about some of the stuff he loved.. His John Deere collection. Words don't describe how kind he was. I will deeply miss him even though I probably didn't even know him as well as many did. A short visit made that big of an impression."

Dave Lanik wrote on Feb 1, 2019:

"Your thoughts and prayers . Leon was a husband , father, and great friend. Was very lucky to have had the pleasure of knowing him. Dave and Cheryl Lanik"