Michael A. Leisner, 71, of Wood River, Illinois passed away at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, April 28, 2025, at Christian Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.
He was born September 24, 1953, in Granite City, Illinois, a son of the late Magnus “Weasel” and Shirley Ann (Heiser) Leisner.
He married Melody Jo (Moore) Leisner on January 15, 2016, in Edwardsville, Illinois and she survives.
The United States Navy veteran proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. Michael retired in 2006 as a police officer with 25 years of service with the City of Granite City. He had previously worked as an EMT and paramedic and was the first K-9 officer with the department and enjoyed training police dogs. He cherished his grandchildren, enjoyed watching old westerns and listening to Elvis. He was proud of his many years of service to his community and will always be considered a hero by his family.
In addition to his beloved sweetheart since 2008, he is survived by five children and spouses, Heather Leisner of Granite City, Josh and Shanna Leisner of Granite City, Kara and Jimmie Pollard of Bunker Hill, Kaitlyn and Scott Forbes of Bethalto and Kelli and Christopher Friedel of Bethalto; eight grandchildren, Riley, Logan, Parker, Brooklynn, Bennett, Val, Laila and Jacob; a sister, Teressa Maus of Waterloo; many nieces and nephews; other extended family and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Kenneth Torrez; a sister and brother-in-law, Cathy and Mike Besserman; a brother and sister-in-law, Douglas and Terry Leisner and a brother-in-law, Rick Maus.
In celebration of his life, visitation will be at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City on Thursday, May 1, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until time of funeral services at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Jesse Tedder officiating.
Burial with military honors will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.
Memorials may be made to the family or to Got Your Six Support Dogs and may be accepted at the funeral chapel. www.irwinchapel.com
