Leyland J. Hermes' Obituary
Leyland J. Hermes, born on April 11, 1929, in Furnas County, Arapahoe, Nebraska, passed away December 18, 2024, in Oswego, Kansas. Leyland was born at home to Fred and Elfrieda Hermes and baptized on May 5, 1929, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Arapahoe by Rev. Martin T. Schabacker.
Leyland began his education at Immanuel Lutheran Parochial School, attending from 1934 to 1942 under the instruction of Mr. Edwin Wohler. He was confirmed in his faith on March 29, 1942, at Immanuel Lutheran Church by Rev. Schabacker. He graduated from Arapahoe High School in 1946 and later attended Kearney State College in Kearney, Nebraska.
In November 1951, Leyland was drafted into the United States Army during the Korean War. He completed basic training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, and served as a radio and switchboard operator with the 37th AAA Artillery in Japan from May 1952 to October 1953. He was also trained as a forward observer with a Naval Gunfire Team during his time in Japan. Leyland was honorably discharged in October 1953.
On February 7, 1954, Leyland married the love of his life, Dolores H. Monter, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Arapahoe. Together, they built a loving family, raising two children: Brian and Lesa. Leyland was a proud grandfather to three grandchildren—Amanda, Kimberly, and Christi—and a great-grandfather to ten great-grandchildren.
Leyland had two sisters, Genevieve Wendland (husband Herb, both deceased) and Darien Urbom (husband Ward).
He began his professional career in 1956 at Rockwell International in Kearney, Nebraska, where he worked as an industrial and facilities engineer until 1986. Leyland continued his career with Crane Co. in Rogers, Arkansas, in 1986 and later with FM Corporation, also in Rogers, from 1988 until his retirement in 2008.
Faith was a cornerstone of Leyland’s life. He was an active member of his Lutheran church, serving on the Finance Board, as President, Vice President, and Elder, and participating in Monday night Bible study. He also generously gave his time as a volunteer at the Friendly Bookstore in Rogers.
Leyland will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, a man of strong faith, and a dedicated community member. His warmth, kindness, and unwavering commitment to his family and faith leave a lasting legacy.
A visitation will be held 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Monday December 23, 2024, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church with Funeral Service starting at 11:00 a.m. Entombment will follow at Rogers Cemetery.
Leyland’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have shared their condolences, love, and support during this time.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made the Circle of Life Hospice Bentonville https://nwacircleoflife.com/donatesupport/#donatenow
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