Leroy Edward HAND

May 26, 1936 - March 4, 2020

Leroy Edward Hand (83) passed away peacefully on March 4, 2020. Leroy was born in East St. Louis, Illinois on May 26, 1936. He lived in the Metro East area until the mid-1960s when he moved to the Upland, Pomona and Ontario, California area. Leroy returned to St. Louis in 2004 and has resided in O’Fallon, Missouri for the past 16 years. Leroy was a tool and die maker and worked for over 20 years at Ajax Tool Supply Company in California. Following retirement, Leroy enjoyed spending time with family and watching old movies, especially with his two granddaughters Chellie Butel and Millicent Huser. Leroy was married to the love of his life, Dorothy “Dot” Hand for almost 50 years. They had one son together, David Hand, who was born in 1963 with Down’s syndrome. They both loved and supported David unconditionally. David’s condition led Leroy and Dot to become involved in the Special Olympics; Dot was an Executive Director and Leroy provided whatever support was needed, including travelling with the team for sporting events. Leroy is survived by his children Hilda (Sammy, deceased) Hair, Leroy (Carrie) Brown and Tracy (Tom) Moreland; his sister Mildred Hand; grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Dorothy (Jett) Hand, son David Hand, step-children: Walter “Stinky” (Delphine, deceased) Werremeyer, Jean (Ed) Ellerbrake, Peggy (Joseph, deceased) Lunatto and Harry Dale “Joe” Werremeyer; He was also preceded in death by his parents and siblings. A celebration of life is being planned for a later date.