William L. “Monk” Leitch, of Spring Mills, passed away Sunday, February 25, 2018 at his home. He was 84. Born February 12, 1934 in Jacksonville Township in Howard, Bill was a son of the late Edward W. and Nellie M. (Ragor) Leitch. He was a graduate of Howard High School. On April 2, 1960 he married Doris E. Smith, who survives at their home.
In addition to his wife, Bill is survived by one son, Edward R. Leitch (Jill) of Spring Mills: two daughters, Rosa J. Sweeley (Rick) of Spring Mills and Vicky E. Miller (Kevin) of DE, and one brother, Richard Leitch of Lock Haven. Also surviving are four grandchildren, Dustin Sweeley (Ann), Nichole Stover-Sweeley (Tyler), Douglas Leitch (Courtney) and Alicia Leitch, along with four great grandchildren, Kayla Stover, Eleni Sweeley and Mason and Coleton Leitch. Bill was preceded in death by one brother, James Leitch.
Bill served his country for six years in the U.S Army, in Germany during the Korean Conflict. He was employed as a machinist at the former Cerro Metal Products, retiring with 35 years of service. Bill was a member of the American Legion Keystone Post #444 in Millheim and the Nittany Antique Machinery Association, where he dipped ice cream during the spring and fall shows. In his early years he enjoyed hunting, fishing and attending the sprint car races at Port Royal. Bill loved to spend time with his grandchildren and grandpup, Whiskey. Bill will be fondly remembered for his unique sense of humor.
Family and friends will be received from 10-11 am on Thursday, March 1st at the Steven R. Neff Funeral Home in Millheim. Bill will be laid to rest during a graveside service to follow at Heckman Cemetery with Pastor Mike Covalt and Jody Covalt officiating. Contributions in memory of Bill may be given to the Hope Fund of Penns Valley, Po Box 427, Centre Hall, PA 16827 or to the Penns Valley EMS, Po Box 650, Millheim, PA 16854.