Jack Leedahl

Jack 'The Shoeman' Leedahl, 63, passed away Saturday July 18,2009 in Altru Hospital at Grand Forks, ND, losing his month-long battle with pneumonia and A.R.D.S. Jack was born April 21, 1946 in Grafton, ND. He had the privilege of living with his Uncle Jerry and Aunt Norma Leedahl throughout his school-age years, attending schools in Hoople, Cavalier, and graduating from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls, MN in 1964. He was baptized at the First Evangelical Lutheran Church, Hoople, ND and confirmed at Our Saviors Lutheran Church, Grafton, ND. Jack found success and enjoyment pitching his team to state tournaments in both Grafton and Thief River Falls. He married Yvonne Longevan in November 1966 and together they had a daughter Kim Lindgren of Denver, CO. Jack married Glenna Gunnink on May 9, 1978. Together, they were blessed with two sons, Brooks of Madison, WI and Lane of Lawrence, KS. He began his career in footwear at the S & L store in Grafton. He found his passion for footwear and continued his career at the Bootery in Grand Forks where he worked for Champ and Dale Churchill. This led to many opportunities in both the wholesale and retail level. He and his wife Glenna found their way back to Grand Forks with eventually owning their own store, "Jacks Shoes." Jack took pride and enjoyment in giving his customers complete service and satisfaction. Jack was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church and the National Shoe Retailers Association. He was a devoted husband and father and had spent many hours with his sons hunting, fishing and watching the Minnesota Twins. Jack is survived by his wife of 31 years, Glenna; Sons, Brooks (Mary) of Madison, WI.; Lane (Skye) of Lawrence, KS; Daughter Kim (Chris) Lindgren of Denver, CO; Two Grandsons Beckham of Denver, CO and Finn of Lawrence, KS; Sisters Bonnie (Rick) Knudsvig of Buxton, ND and Linda (Gary) Babinski of Minto, ND, Brother Danny of Grafton and several nieces and nephews.