John C. Leischer

John C. Leischer, 96, of Watertown, passed away on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at Marquardt Park Terrace.

John was born on October 11, 1929, in Waukesha, the son of Christian and Olive (Roemer) Leischer. Chris' first wife died very young and left him with 3 children - Robert, Wesley and Evelys (Roemer) now part of the family. He was the last remaining family member. In the spring of 1930, the family moved to a newly purchased dairy farm in the town of Rubicon in Dodge Co. Wis. John and his parents lived and worked on this farm for the next 25 years. He attended a one-room school a mile and a half away from home for all 8 grades. He completed high school in Hartford, Wisconsin in 1947.

At the age of 25, John decided to leave farming life and to pursue a college education. When the farm was sold, his parents retired and John went to Minnesota to attend St. Paul Bible College (now Crown College). After 4 years he received a B.A. degree. He continued studying at the University of Wisconsin in Milwaukee in preparation to enter graduate school. He also worked for several years in administrative work at Waukesha Engine.

Following this period, he took a Civil Service exam and was employed with the Wisconsin State Employment Service. In that experience John advanced to a position of Vocational counselor which involved giving aptitude tests and counseling to job seekers and to high school students in the surrounding schools. During this time John also continued part-time study at the University and received an M.S. Degree in Educational Psychology.

In 1970 following the death of his parents he moved to California where he worked as a vocational counselor for military veterans and for people with disabilities with the goal of finding employment for them. After 16 years in California John decided to return to Wisconsin and be near to his aging siblings. For several years he was involved in a lawn care business. During this time, he was actively involved with the birth of River Valley Alliance Church in Watertown and the huge construction project that followed.

John was a music lover and especially enjoyed the organ at home and he also played at his church. He belonged to a home organ club that had monthly gatherings and concerts. John also loved traveling. He toured most of the U.S. and took several tours to Europe, South America and Russia. Having a rich farm background, he enjoyed going to numerous antique farm tractor events in several states.

The Christian faith was very important to John-at age 14 he made the decision to receive Jesus Christ as his Savior. He was a lifelong church member and served in many ways including Sunday School teacher choir, organist, church officer grounds keeper and others. For many years he volunteered at summer camps for people with disabilities. He also volunteered for various duties at local nursing homes and assisted with Meals on Wheels. It was always John's desire to honor God and to serve others.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00am on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at River Valley Alliance Church in Watertown, with Rev, David Zimmermann presiding. Visitation will take place at the church from 10:00am until the time of service. Burial will follow the service at Glenview Memorial Gardens in Ixonia.

In lieu of flowers, donations to RVAC Benevolent Fund, or Gideons International would be appreciated.