Marian L. Leaman

Marian (Fehrenbacher) Leaman passed away peacefully on June 23rd, 2025, at her home at Freedom Village in Bradenton, Florida at the age of 92. 

Marian is survived by her sister Jane Fehrenbacher, six children, Gary (Heather), Jane, Mark (Francesca), Karen, David (Christine), and Sara Haneman (Roger). Dear Grandmother to seven grandchildren; Philip (Lauren), Alexandra (Cameron), Hope, Henry, Joseph (Brianna), Isabella and William. Great-Grandmother to Maximos. Also, an aunt to many nieces and nephews. Proceeded in death by her loving husband, CDR Richard “Dick” Leaman (USN Ret), her parents Frank and Mary Fehrenbacher, three brothers; John, George, Frank “Fritz” and sister Joann Sprague.

Marian was born and raised in Joliet, Illinois and went on to attend Mount Mary College, graduating in 1954 with a Bachelor of Science degree specializing in Occupational Therapy. Marian married her high school sweetheart Dick on December 29th, 1954. They shared a marriage for 69 years before Dick’s passing in 2024.

As a wife of a Naval Officer, she made her home in many states, eventually settling back in Joliet, Illinois. Marian dedicated her life to the care of her six children, while working as a hospital volunteer and a substitute teacher. When she returned to Joliet, after Dick’s Naval retirement, she worked in her college major as a certified Occupational Therapist at St Joseph’s Hospital. She worked for many years, eventually becoming the OT department manager.

Marian was an extremely talented artist, mastering painting, jewelry making and design, weaving, quilting and greeting cards. You could always find her creating something. Marian was a loving mother and wife. She ensured that her extended family would continue, organizing numerous family reunions with her brothers, sister, nephews, nieces and all of their families.

After their Navy journeys, Dick and Marian retired to their hometown of Joliet, Illinois. They began “snow birding” to Bradenton, FL before permanently living there in 2021. Marian was loved by many and will be greatly missed and remembered.

Catholic services will be held for Marian on Tuesday July 15th at 9:30 AM at Saints Peter and Paul the Apostles Catholic Church in Bradenton, Florida. A Celebration of Life will be held afterwards at Freedom Village at 11:30 AM. Dick and Marian will be interred at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Illinois. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Marian, Tidewell Hospice, 3355 26th St. West, Bradenton, FL 34205 or Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus, 604 N Raynor Ave, Joliet, IL 60435.