Obituaries
Nathan Leikip
Published
2 years agoon
Nathan A. Leikip, 45, formerly of Sheridan, Wyo., died Monday, January 16, 2023, at his home in Overland Park, Kan. after a 19-year battle with PTSD and the physical pain from injuries he sustained during his tour of duty with the US Army in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). Even though Nathan took his own life, he was a baptized child of God, and is now in the arms of his Risen Savior and is free of pain. He is healthy, happy, and whole.
Nathan, whose name means “Gift of God”, was born February 19, 1977, in Antigo, Wis. He was adopted by his parents, Daniel J. Leikip (deceased) and Beth M. Leikip-Manthei in Merrill, Wis., where he spent his early childhood. Following his father’s death, his mother married Jay Manthei, and the family moved to Sheridan in 1992.
He graduated from Sheridan High School in 1995 and enlisted in the US Navy where he served aboard the submarine USS Rhode Island from 1996-2000. Following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, he was compelled to enlist in the US Army to serve our country again. While deployed in Iraq, he sustained injuries after an attack on his convoy in November 2003. He returned home and was honored by his hometown. After a short visit, he went back to Iraq. Two weeks later, in February 2004, the vehicle he was riding in hit an IED. Nathan sustained injuries from that attack; however, the other two soldiers in the vehicle were killed. He received two Purple Hearts and the Army Commendation Medal for Combat Valor. Despite his desire to return to Iraq and complete his mission, Nathan was honorably discharged in January 2005. Nathan passionately served our country and was a true patriot.
Upon discharge, he attended the police academy in Trinidad, Colo., and became a sheriff’s deputy for the Bayfield Colorado Marshal’s Office until 2009. He held various jobs in Florida and again in Colorado, before relocating to Kansas City to be near family.
Nathan actively hunted, fished, and camped in the Big Horn mountains and in Colorado. In Kansas, he enjoyed cruising around on his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, restoring vintage vehicles with his brother-in-law, and horseback riding.
He is preceded in death by his father, his maternal grandparents Willis and Selda Weerts; paternal grandparents Raymond and Aurelia Leikip, as well as his step-brother, Jon Manthei. He is survived by his mother and stepfather both of Sheridan, his sister, Melissa Leikip-Madsen (Paul) of Leawood, Kan., and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Nathan was a man of honor and integrity. He was a loyal friend – always willing to help in times of need. Rough around the edges, he had a heart of gold and an amazing smile and laugh that brought joy to everyone he met. He will be deeply missed by many.
The funeral for Nathan Leikip, son of Jay and Beth Manthei, will be at 10:00 A.M., Friday, April 28, 2023, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Sheridan with Pastor Paul J Cain officiating. After the service, Nathan will receive full military honors at the cemetery followed by a meal and reception in the fellowship hall.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Nathan’s memory can be made to Tunnels to Towers Foundation, Disabled American Veterans and Martin Luther Grammar School, or Immanuel Lutheran Church in Sheridan.
On behalf of all the men and women who have served our country, the family encourages everyone to contact their congressmen and ask them to pursue better mental health assistance for our returning combat veterans.
Mike McLaughlin
January 24, 2023 at 12:50 pm
Sounds like a Man who served his country and gave it all. R.I.P.
Keri Lawson
January 24, 2023 at 8:22 pm
I didn’t know have the privilege to know Nathan but my son David worked with him. May God sustain you and provide peace and comfort as only He can. Praying for you.
Brian Weerts
January 24, 2023 at 9:03 pm
Nathan was my godson and a wonderful young man. I loved him! Remember those who serve.
Joseph Kill
January 25, 2023 at 9:37 am
Nate was truly a good man and he will be sorely missed.
Tami Sheffield
January 25, 2023 at 1:52 pm
Nate was a true friend and a beautiful person. He will always be remembered for his integrity and kindness and beautiful smile.
Jaimie
January 26, 2023 at 6:42 am
I had the pleasure of knowing Nate and calling him a friend/brother. My heart is shattered by the news . My prayers are with the family. RIP my dear friend until I see you again love ya kid
J
Susan Waddell
January 26, 2023 at 4:55 pm
Nathan was like a son to me, and I loved him so much! He was a wonderful man and a loyal friend.
Dan McGillivray
January 26, 2023 at 8:23 pm
I never expected to see Nate’s here. He was a warrior and general good guy. I didn’t really talk to him too much since high school, but always thought the path he took through life was pretty honorable. This doesn’t seem like the best place to pay the man his respect, but not sure where else to do it. My condolences to Melissa and the rest of his family.
Beth M Leikip-Manthei
February 2, 2023 at 12:14 pm
Thank-you so much Dan for your kind thoughts. Our son and brother will be deeply missed, but we know that he is in heaven with his Lord and is free from all pain and sadness. We live in the hope that we will join him.
Nate’s funeral and celebration of life will be Friday, April 28th at 10 am at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Sheridan. Maybe we will see you there. May God bless you. Beth Leikip Manthei, Nate’s mother
Didi
January 29, 2023 at 6:17 pm
Words will never be enough to sum up Nate. He was truly special. One of the best. My thought and prayers are with his family
Celese Kershaw
March 27, 2023 at 5:40 pm
My heart is Heavy. I met Nate at the Trinidad Police Academy when he and my ex husband Jason Graduated. He was one of my best friends. Alot of good memories. I carry him in my heart forever. Prayers to all of the Family and friends during this time…
Valinda K Jewell
May 5, 2023 at 4:51 pm
Thank you for the honor to Read about and to in a small way no your son Nate a fellow vet. My service in no way compares to his and will be treasured always. May the joy of the lord be your strength as you walk through this great loss, Beth and Jay. I am here. Val