Elsie Rose (Sneider) Leisure

Lansing, MI

Age 95, passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2024.  She was born January 4, 1929, in Lansing, Michigan, the daughter of Adolph and Rose (Woyke) Sneider.  A strong, admirable woman who was the consummate host and party planner, she dedicated her life to extended family and friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband of 50 years Blaine Leisure, caring partner of 20 years Douglas Ilten, sisters, Margaret Shepard and Anne Potter, and brother Otto.

She is survived by her devoted son David (Deborah) Leisure, her granddaughter Heather (John) Hill, and her great grandsons Sean and Connor Hill.  Her “step daughters” Debra (Richard) Ruelle and Christie (John Warvel) Ilten and their children and grandchildren provided love and care to her for many years and held a special place in her heart.  She also had nieces, nephews, and their families who loved her dearly and were by her side until the end.  She graduated in 1947 from Sexton High School and soon after became a wife and mother.  She worked as a bookkeeper at Napa Auto Parts in Lansing for several years, but her focus was always on family.  Through the years she enjoyed bowling, performing as Elsie the Clown for Elks Club fund raisers, MSU football (Go Green!), neighborhood get togethers, Friday happy hours, holidays with family, and puzzle making.  She was known worldwide (or at least by her family) as the best French toast and potato salad maker ever.  So many people loved Elsie, and she will be forever missed.

Cremation has taken place, and a private family graveside service will be held this summer.  In lieu of flowers, those desiring to make contributions may do so to the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of Elsie and those she loved and were affected by the disease.