James H. Leitten

James Howe Leitten passed away on April 21, 2026 after a brief illness. He is survived by his cherished wife of 48 years, Mary Ellen (nee Keenan), beloved daughter Rebecca Rose (Michael) O’Grady, treasured granddaughter Eleanor Rose O’Grady, and dear sisters Teresa (the late Samuel) Taneff and Elizabeth (Stanley) Moore. He is predeceased by his parents, Carl and Mary (nee Howe) Leitten, brothers Carl, Richard, and David, and sister Mary.

James grew up in Hamburg, New York and spent his working years there as a Technical Director in the abrasives industry. In retirement, he relocated to LaGrange, Ohio, where he and his wife Mary built their dream home near to his daughter and her family. James was an avid outdoorsman, and was proud to be an Adirondack 46er. He enjoyed building model airplanes, fine woodworking, sharing stories, and showing his love with thoughtful gifts and treats. A devout man, he always sought God in the beauty of nature.

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 29, 2026 from 10 a.m. until the time of Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church 708 Erie Street in Grafton. Reverend Father John P. Seabold, pastor will be the celebrant. Burial will immediately follow at St. Mary Cemetery in Grafton.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his name would be gratefully accepted by Kitten Krazy cat rescue of Medina, Ohio www.kittenkrazy.org/donate.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.laubenthalmercado.com. Arrangements entrusted to Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home in Elyria.