NEW ULM–LeRoy E. Byer, age 91, a longtime resident of New Ulm, Minnesota, passed away peacefully, Thursday, May 8, 2025, at Hillcrest Rehabilitation Center in Mankato, Minnesota. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, will always be remembered for his kindness and willingness to lend a hand to those in need.

Born May 28, 1933 in New Ulm, LeRoy grew up the only child of the late Emmett and Leona (Tanley) Byer. From an early age, LeRoy exhibited a unique skillset in the industrial arts field. He assisted his grandfather and father in the family construction business, which built homes in the New Ulm area, and worked as a machinist at Kraft Food Company, New Ulm until his retirement in 1988.

LeRoy married the love of his life, Dorthy Brandel on September 27, 1952, and enjoyed 61 years of marriage until her passing on July 13, 2013. Together they raised six children and loved to travel the country, be it by car, camper, or motorcycle.

LeRoy was a loving and devoted husband and father, where family was an important aspect of his life. LeRoy is survived by daughters, Julia (Stephen) Stanley of Desert Hot Springs, CA; Marie Sweet (Chuck Clark) of Wynona, OK; Alice (Roger) Plechaty Jr. of Frankfort, IL (nee David Simpkins of Prior Lake, MN); son, Steven of Side Lake, MN; and daughter-in-law Beverly Byer (Wilmes). Also, grandchildren Janelle (Ryan) Bell; Michele Krausmann; Lisa (Brandon) Pelton; Jeanna Sweet; Jonathan Sweet; Jeremy (Linzee) Sweet; Jessica (Brendon) Lucas; Alan Plechaty; and Andrea Byer. Also, 13 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

LeRoy was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Joan, son David and son-in-law David Simpkins. Also, his mother and father-in-law Henry and Anna (Preisinger) Brandel.

LeRoy has donated his remains to the University of Minnesota for further study. A private memorial will be held at a later date. In honor of LeRoy’s generous spirit, the family asks that donations be made in his name to New Ulm Turner Hall (newulmturnerhall.org).

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