September 15, 1927 - July 23, 2017
Ervin John Leitz was born September 15, 1927 on the family homestead outside of Waverly, Washington. He grew up on the wheat farm with his parents Erich and Irene, and his siblings: Leonard, Alma, Emil, Myron, Louise and Frankie. Ervin learned to farm from his father, Erich, clearing and working the land with hoof-driven power. He took those reins and guided the development of the first patch of ground through steam and diesel to a modern and productive concern. Ervin left the Palouse to serve in the Korean War as an aircraft mechanic in 1948; stationed in Japan for three years and 8 months. He returned to run the family farm for more than half a century. After his retirement, Ervin took refuge in flying and fishing. Family huckleberry outings in the Idaho woods were a favorite event. A man of few words, Ervin enjoyed the company of dogs as much as humans, for the less they said the better. As his brother-in-law, Alex once observed, "He was the only person you could drive to Seattle with and not hear a word." He was also an avid reader. Ervin mustered through the trials of life with a calm demeanor. That was Ervin, never loud or abrupt. Strong, quiet, a firm hand to the plow. - A memorial service will be held August 18th, 1:30 pm at Zion Lutheran Church in Fairfield, WA. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent in Ervin's name to Fairfield Care Center or Lutherhaven or the charity of your choice.
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