South Bend, Indiana – Leroy Crain, a beloved community member and former Marketing Manager at Dexter-Axle, passed away on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at the age of 80. Born on May 19, 1944, in Linton, Indiana, Leroy lived a life filled with kindness, faith, and service to others.
Leroy was married to his wife, Mary Lee, for 42 years, and together they built a family rooted in love. He is survived by his daughter, Lori Kaiser of South Bend, his son Keith Crain, also of South Bend, five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Sadly, his son Kevin, along with his sister Patricia and brother Frank, passed away before him.
Professionally, Leroy worked at Dexter-Axle for 36 years, where he was known for his leadership, hard work, and ability to make everyone around him feel valued. He made significant contributions to the company’s success and left an indelible mark on his colleagues.
Leroy’s faith was central to his life. As a long-time member and elder at Trinity Free Evangelical Church, he was known for making people feel welcome each Sunday. His commitment to his church and his mission work took him on over 20 trips to Africa, El Salvador, and Honduras. He led 17 mission trips with the World Compassion Network, spreading love and support across the globe.
Beyond his faith and service, Leroy had a passion for gardening, particularly his collection of hostas, and was a dedicated stamp collector as a member of the American Philatelic Society.
A visitation for Leroy Crain will be held on Tuesday, October 1, at Trinity Evangelical Free Church in South Bend, with a service to celebrate his life on Wednesday. The family has requested memory gifts to be sent to either Trinity Church or World Compassion Network.
Many took to Facebook to share their memories and condolences, with Joe Wilkey writing, "A good friend and confidant, Leroy Crain went home to be with the Lord Sunday. He was the best friend, and loved the Lord and everyone around him. We had some really great times together. I’m confident when I walk through the gates of heaven, I will hear ‘Wendall’ until then, I miss you, LeRoy."
Lynn Wilkey shared, "LeRoy was loved and loved well. He will be missed and remembered by all that knew him," while Renee Barnaby-Fisher posted a Bible verse, "His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master’."
Leroy Crain will be remembered for his unwavering faith, dedication to service, and the love he shared with his family, friends, and community.