Leo Albert "Lefty" Keesling, 89, died Aug. 12, 2016, at his home in Hutchinson, surrounded by his family. He was born Oct. 7, 1926, in Sylvia, to Luther O. and Elma (Clothier) Keesling.

Leo graduated from Sylvia High School in 1945. He was a farmer, oilfield worker, and retired from Carey Salt, after 24 years of service. Leo served in the United States Marine Corps for one and a half years. He was one of Jehovah's Witnesses.

Leo married Freda June Staats on March 9, 1945, in Hutchinson. She died April 10, 2013. Survivors include: son, Steven Keesling of Hutchinson; daughters, Susan Gates and Chris Brown, both of Wichita; seven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by: his parents; daughter, Cathy Keesling; and seven brothers and sisters.

Cremation has taken place and no services are planned. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Reno County, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.