Leroy Harold Birkholz of McCleary, Washington passed away Sunday, May 2, 2021, at Montesano Health and Rehab. He was 87. Leroy was born Nov. 10, 1933, in Glencoe, Minnesota to George and Lydia (Templin) Birkholz.

He was raised in McLeod County, Minnesota. Leroy had lived in West Seattle and worked as a marine pipefitter for 50 years at Todd’s Shipyard before moving to McCleary in 1990.

Leroy proudly served in the U.S. Army for eight years during the 1950s.

On May 31, 1986, Leroy married Doris Lee LaFrance on the bridge at their property in McCleary.

Leroy enjoyed duck hunting, fishing and camping; he loved playing cards, working on his property and walking his dog to the creek with a cup of coffee. He loved to garden, raising vegetables and flowers. He was very proud of his property and maintained it like a park. He was always willing to share his property with family and friends.

Leroy is survived by his son Byron Bruce Bockness and daughter Burnetta “Bunny” Bockness Milam both of McCleary, Washington; sister-in-law Marion (George) Birkholz; grandchildren: Ryan Matthew Milam, Scott Christopher Milam, Branden Bruce (Rochelle) Bockness, Courtney (Victor) Bockness Voellger, Jared ”J.D.” Dwight Bockness, Jocelyn (Todd) Briggs Ellis, Daniell (Dustin) Briggs Evans, Dusty (Angie) Briggs; 16 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife Doris, brothers George and Melvin Birkholz and sister Delores Birkholz-Coleman.

A graveside service with military honors will take place at 12 p.m., Saturday, May 29, 2021 at McCleary Cemetery with Pastor Denny Hinds officiating.

To leave a condolence for the family or to sign the online guestbook please visit www.harrisonfamilymortuary.com . Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Harrison Family Mortuary of Montesano.