Leah L. Schaede

Leah Louanne Schaede, 82, of Loda Illinois, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Known for her quick humor, sharp mind, and feisty personality, Leah left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Born on February 9, 1943, in LaSalle, Illinois, to Louis and Lillian Dobovsky (née Klabel), Leah was raised in a multicultural home. She carried the cultural aspects of her Jewish heritage with pride, shaping her sense of family, tradition, and storytelling, while living life on her own terms—with humor, independence, and plenty of wit. Leah graduated from LaSalle-Peru High School in 1961 and went on to attend LPO Junior College, where she met the love of her life, Franklin Bice Schaede. They were married on March 1, 1963, and recently celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary —a testament to their enduring love, patience, and mutual appreciation for each other’s sense of humor. Leah’s love language was “Acts of Service.” Cooking was her tangible way to express love, thoughtfulness, and nurturing. She especially enjoyed big Sunday dinners and holidays, where she would bring everyone together with delicious food, laughter, and her signature wit. She delighted in sharing family stories, which always kept her listeners riveted and rolling with laughter for hours. Leah was deeply devoted to her family and is survived by her loving husband, Franklin; her children, Christopher (Lisa) Schaede of Princeton, Sarah (Joseph) Santangelo of Eagan, Minnesota, and Gretchen (Matthew) Buckley of Petaluma, California. She is also survived by her four beloved grandchildren, Leah Rose (Jordan) Hickey, Nathan Edward (Kaitlyn) Schaede, Ava Lillian Santangelo, and Evan John Buckley; her brother Philip (Miriam) Dobovsky of Wisconsin and Florida; and her sister Sandra Tostovarsnik of Las Vegas. “Aunt B” will also be missed by her many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, a grandson Benjamin Schaede, nephews Louis Dobovsky and Douglas Dobovsky, brothers David Dobovsky and Jack Dobovsky, and brother-in-law William Schaede. A private service for immediate family will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to The Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism. This reflects Leah’s generous spirit and her lifelong commitment to supporting those around her.

Leah L. Schaede

February 9, 1943 - November 26, 2025