LeRoy Biesheuvel, age 70 of Broadus, died on September 5, 2013 at the Ft. Meade Veterans Hospital after fighting an aggressive brain cancer for four years.
He was born just over the line into North Dakota on May 13, 1943. He spent his first 9 years near Pollock, SD and then moved to the Black Hills. He joined the U.S. Army in 1962 and was stationed for a time in Germany. He married Katheryne Hart Englebert on Aug. 27, 1967 and enrolled in nurses training. After several years as a surgical nurse at the VA Medical Center, Ft. Meade, SD, he enrolled in physician assistant school in 1983 and graduated in 1984. The couple and two of their children then moved to Broadus where LeRoy provided medical care at the Powder River Clinic for over 25 years. Nearly all that time, he was the only medical care in the county. Do people in heaven need medical care? No, but if they did, they would be waiting a turn to see LeRoy and receive his advice, his great diagnosing skills, and best of all, his hugs.
LeRoy was a lifetime member of Jackpine Gypsy Motorcycle Club, who founded the Sturgis Rally; Powder River Masonic Lodge #135 in Broadus; Olive Branch Lodge #47 in Sturgis, SD; the Naja Shrine; The Scottish Rite, Matopaha Chapter 98 of the Order of the Eastern Star in Sturgis, SD, National Rifle Association, PRC-UCC, American Motorcycle Association, American Academy of Physician Assistants, Montana Academy of Physician Assistants.
He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Kathy; son Rod (Lucy) Englebert of Lake Elsinore, CA; daughter Trina (Charlie) Wheeler of Piedmont, SD; son Rich of Broadus; step-daughter Charlotte (Mitch) Hildebrant of Nelspruit, South Africa; grandsons Christopher Wheeler and Colton Biesheuvel; granddaughters Samantha Ricci and Kaylie Wheeler; two step-grandsons, David and Joey (Jennifer) Rivera of California, former daughter-in-law Cassy Biesheuvel of Whitewood, SD; and numerous nieces and nephews and their children. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and one sister.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 6, 2013 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Broadus, MT. Memorial services will be held on Sunday, September 8, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. at the Powder River High School Gymnasium in Broadus, MT. For those who wish, the family has asking those who attend LeRoy’s services to wear colorful clothing to help celebrate his life. Interment will be held at a later date. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the LeRoy Biesheuvel Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o 1st Bank of Sidney in Broadus, MT; to help future students further their education in medicine.
Darold & Sylvia says
Prayers to the family for strength now that this Grand Man has gone to the Heavens. May Leroy rest in peace now after his struggle. Good memories be with all of you. He took care of so many of us for so many years and feel so fortunate to have known him. Love to you all…
Sylvia
Bill and Kara Lambert says
Kathy and family, So very sorry for you loss. We as a community were so lucky to have Leroy as a care giver. He made us all feel better whether it was simply a cold or something worse. He saved lives and enriched all of ours. He was there day or night and I even took Chantz to your house late at night so he could check on him when he was only a few weeks old. His kindness and caring was amazing. He will be missed but never forgotten. My prayers for you all for comfort. Rest in Peace Leroy.
Pat Franklin says
Kathy and family, I’m so sorry for your loss. Leroy was there for us for so long, and we did appreciate everything that he did! Rest in peace Leroy now he can take care of you!
Guy and Gladys Edwards says
Our thoughts, prayers, and tears are for your family at this very sad time.
LeRoy was always so cheerful and with a smile. Our sympathy
Peggy & Harlan Jones says
Leroy was geat to work with when I worked with the ambulance service. And as our family caregiver his kindness and knowledge were the best for so many years. He gave and gave to our commuity. May the Lord wrap His arms around all of your family and give you peace.
Betty Vail says
Oh the wonderful memories I have of Leroy….especially the home visit he made the night of Shep’s graduation when Steve cut his finger and we all had to have dessert before he could take Steve to the clinic to put the stitches in. Leroy was a wonderful asset to Broadus and is greatly missed I’m sure. God Bless you all.
Sally Borla says
SO VERY SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT LEROY’S PASSING–HE WAS A WONDERFUL AND
CARING P.A. HERE IN BROADUS. I SO APPRECIATED HIM WHEN I FIRST RETURNED
TO BROADUS 12 YRS. AGO–HE HELPED ME SO MUCH WITH BRONCHITUS AND
PNEUMONIA THE FIRST FEW YEARS. HE IS IN HEAVEN NOW AND HAS NO PAIN
OR SUFFEFRING. MY HEART GOES OUT TO THE FAMILY AT THIS VERY SAD TIME.
Carolyn and Lonnie Johnson says
We are certainly better for having known Leroy. What a wonderfully gifted man that touced our lives in so many ways. We are so thankful that Heather was able to learn from him; she is making him proud today! Please accept our love and sympathy.
Lindsey Johnson (Archer) says
Kathy and family- so sorry for your loss! LeRoy was a wonderful man who cared so deeply for everyone in the community! I am sure at times you wished we would let him enjoy his warm dinner and home, but he was always available to anyone in the county who needed him! May all the wonderful memories bring you peace and joy! Prayers for you all!
DrewAnne Gatlin says
I remember being so excited to go to the clinic just to see LeRoy. He was the one who weighed me and measured me when I was born and he always made me feel special when I saw him. He was a great man and will be missed.
Ella Mae Drane says
It has all been said LeRoy had his own special place in everyone’s heart.Will be greatly missed.May God Bless all of you, family and friends.
PENNY PEARCE says
KATHY AND FAMILY WE ARE SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOST. BROADUS LOST A GREAT PERSON AND THE MEDICAL FIELD LOST SUCH A CARING DOCTOR. GOD BLESS
Justin & Charlee Kuhbacher says
Go rest high on that mountain…son your work on earth is done….you did all the good that you could while you were here…from all of us in the Broadus Community Thank You for your Tireless service to our loved ones…You and your Family sacrificed much, and are loved beyond measure… <3 sending all our love your way…
Dyan Fidel says
Kathy and family, so very sorry for your loss. LeRoy was a great man. I will never forget how caring he was, and the smile he always had. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time.
Caryn Watters says
I remember the first time Leroy saw me, it was for stitches, and I warned him I was a wus. He completely cleared the Clinic, other than the nurse, and then proceeded to tell me I could scream, cuss, holler, cry, absolutely NO biting, kicking, punching, or hurting him or the nurse, Clinton was laughing so hard…..We all survived and I had my stitches….he never had to tell me that again. His smile, easy laughter and total understanding of each of us as individuals will be greatly missed…Thank you God, for the wonderful times we had w/ Leroy, and all the memories we will cherish forever…
Skin and Betty Collins says
LeRoy’s journey on earth is over and he is with his Maker . He was a man with a heart of gold. He gave so much to his community. A special thanks to his family for sharing him with all of us. Hugs and prayers to all the Biesheuvel family at this difficult time. Rest in peace LeRoy. Gone, but not forgotten.
Lauri Morella Feralio says
Kathy, Trina and Rich so sorry to hear of your loss. LeRoy was an amazing person and served our community like no one else. He was the true meaning of a caregiver . As someone in the healthcare field I always admired him. Keep your memories close and allow God to comfort you at this time.
Brett, Kimber and family says
Kathy & family,
Thoughts and prayers to you and yours as God guides you through the coming days. I feel lucky to have known such a wonderful man, Leroy always had a smile and such a gentle, kind soul. He was welcomed with open arms into Heaven! Thank you for sharing him with us. Sending love, Brett, Kimber, Chi, ~Kenna~ and Cale.
Pat Smith says
It is time for a final farewell LeRoy, you will be remembered by those of us you leave behind for many years to come. Our greatest wish is to be fortunate enough to join you again some day. May your family take comfort in knowing you will be waiting for them to complete the family circle again at some future time and also in all the wonderful memories you helped creat over the many years you were with them. God bless and keep you and guide and comfort your family as they carry on.
fam Biesheuvel the netherlands says
Dear kathy, children, grandchildren ,
With this letter we want to share our condolences on the passing of LeRoy. Although we have been expecting this message for some time it still comes as a shock.
Our thoughts have been and will be with you. We hold warm memories of LeRoy and he will be dearly missed. The memories however linger and paint a picture of a remakable person, so American but also so Dutch. After a century of growing apart, the reunification of the family recreated a bond we hold dear. The many things we shared in talks and humor, the places we visited and the simple things we enjoyed together will stay with us
We mourn with you , shed a tear with you, send a warm family hug and find comfort in the thought he is in Good Hands
Ida,
Hetty, Kees, Jos and Annemarie, Sander.
Kees. Adri-Anne, Bas, Wout, Wieke
LINDA AND BILL CANON says
A grand man and the best doctor ever.He fought a grand battle that took him down,the horrific pain is now gone.We will miss our friend alway’s but never forget the smiles and hugs.He will alway’s be in our thoughts of the kindness he showed to everyone.Go with god our friend and know you will never be forgot ever!
Ernest & Esther Nelson says
May God be with you all and our prayers for His comfort as you moun the loss of LeRoy. He was a very caring person ! Our sympathy s ,.
A Neighbor says
May Leroy Biesheuvel RIP, death is an unnatural process that we will never get used to, as long as Love reigns there exists hope, God is Love. True hope from God’s Word, WILL console the heart. Listen to when God speaks through verses and scriptures, with prayer for understanding let God’s Word console and gradually minimize the pain and grief until it is no more. Read and trust these Words and let them be the foundation of your life until true life in what he purposed it to be is fully realized. Joshua 1:8; Psalms 1:1-3; Psalms 37:10,11; Revelation 21:4
Dan & Sheri Gali says
So sorry to hear of Leroys passing. He was a grand person who always had a smile and usually a good joke for you !! We have missed him dearly at the clinic, he was an awesome doctor. Rest now Leroy, in the arms of the lord. Hugs to the Biescheuval family. God Bless you all.
Lewis & Marla says
RIP buddy we will miss you and will always love you and your family
Vickie Netterberg says
Dear Kathy and family,
I am saddened to hear of Leroy’s passing. He is in a better place and we are missing him. Hold dear the wonderful memories, they will sustain you during this difficult time.
We had some good times in Sturgis when our children were young. You and your family have been blessed in many ways. Stay strong, cry, and talk to everyone about your wonderful man. When folks get tired of listening, look for someone else to talk to about him.
God Bless! Vickie and family.
Marguerite Kleven says
Trina and family, Sincere sympathy upon the death of your father, grandfather, friend. Know how many friends you have that are sharing your sorrow.
Paul Lindstrom says
Leroy was one of the first to welcome me to Jackpine Gypsies; I was a road guard for the tours during the MC rally. He taught me how to direct and stop traffic with a smile. He was an excellent example of how to live and leave a positive legacy. Prayers from one of your many Sturgis friends…..
Pam & Larry Buhler says
Our deepest condolences to you Kathy and the family on Leroy’s passing. His story he told about his cancer fight at the Meade Co Relay for Life was so touching, We remember way back when his gift of the Lilac bushes from your yard and how they have grown, I will watch them bloom in the spring and always think of him and the good laughs we shard. Prayers & love to you.
Chad, Amber, Molly, Megan Sundvold says
My family is deeply sorry for the loss of your dad, grandpa, and father- in-law. We pray for Leroy’s life to be remember for the brave fight that he fought against his cancer. His life will always be remembered by the stories your family will tell for years to come. Love your Sioux Falls friends
Sue Ann Leininger says
So many people “own” a LeRoy memory from his role at the clinic, in the church, in the community. Even those of us who would pop into town for a few weeks during the summer with a carload of accident prone kids or watched him care for our aging parents are privileged to share in those special LeRoy moments. May memories surround you like warm hugs and please know that many, many of us near and far share in your sorrow and celebration of a fine, fine man.
Dan Biesheuvel says
Kathy,
So sorry to hear of LeRoy’s passing. Always loved seeing you and LeRoy and remember fondly your homemade brew. Ida from the Netherlands said it so well. So American but still so Dutch. LeRoy proudly served his country then his patients with no reserve. I salute his life and what he did. Bless you Kathy and children.
Dan Biesheuvel
ND Patriot Guard Riders
Julie Gatlin & Kenny Gress says
Kathy, Trina, Rich and all of Leroy’s family
I was so saddened by the news of Leroy’s passing. He was the only doctor I knew for many years. He took care of me and my family and always with a smile. I contacted him many times at night, and he was always willing to talk to me or do whatever was needed. The Broadus community was blessed when the got Leroy as their doctor.
He is in the hands of the Lord now and no longer in pain. Our fond memories of him will always be present whenever we think of him. He is gone now but never forgotten.
God bless all of you.
Julie & Kenny
Anita McFarland Osmotherly says
Trina and family,
So sorry for you loss, heaven gained an amazing angel! You are all in our prayers. Love and God bless.
Chad & Amber Sundvold says
Trina, Charlie and family,
We are so sorry about the death of your dad. We are thinking of you lots. Hugs.
Laura Brennan says
Kathy,
Though I didn’t know LeRoy for a long time I am so happy that I had the opportunity to met him when I did. I so loved waiting on you guys when you would come to town. His happy and upbeat spirit was such a joy and your love for each other was so obvious. I am so happy I got to spend some time with LeRoy at Aubrey’s funeral. We were able to have a good conversation about life and death and it meant a lot to me!
My prayers are with you.
Love, Laura
Steve Vail says
Kathy and Family, Leroy will be sorely missed. I remember the house calls that he made for me, and his sense of humor. Always made it easy as possible for me. He is a better place now.
Ward & Darcia Patten says
So very sorry to hear this news, even though it has been expected. He was a great man and did so many wonderful things for this community. He and all of his family fought a very horrific battle, but with great spirit and honor all the way. He will be dearly missed! However he’s in a much better place now, with quite a few friends who I’m sure will enjoy his company until his family joins him again.
Sherman & Fran Oland says
To Kathy and family:
Our sincere symphathy goes out to you at this time. May your fondest memories always keep LeRoy close by. We so much enjoyed working together on the various MTNWYO Conference boards and committees. LeRoy was our only Eastern Association “Biker”.
We can’t make it to the memorial service but really wish we could.
Susan (Biesheuvel) Gimbel says
Our love and good prayers are with you at this time. Mother (Irene) Biesheuvel also sends her regards. LeRoy lead a life that was so admirable. A life of faith, hope and charity….each being equal in all his activities and actions. God Bless You and the family. Sincerely, Susan & Irene Biesheuvel
John & Angela Ross says
We are very sorry to hear about LeRoy. He is in a better place. He fought a good fight and never gave up. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. John and Angela
Cheryl Schaffer _ Fields says
My Heart is heavy with the loss of a great great person. LeRoy was a very caring an loving person. He has stitched and wrapped and medicated almost every person in Powder River County. In the middle of the night on weekends and Holidays .. Kids and Kids of Kids Parents..Grandparents and strangers. He will be greatly missed and always remembered. I send prayers for Kathy and her family.
Kevin Johnson says
So sorry for your loss. Leroy was a great man- Father, Husband, freind. Always caring and compassionate, a truly great healer.
Bill and Dina Gay says
We were so fortunate to have LeRoy with us through all the years as PA. I can still hear his kind words and advice, his sense of humor, his insight far beyond what most would have. Terribly saddened by the struggles he had the past four years. Know he is in a better place now. Our prayers and love to the whole family.
Judy Denson-Keller says
Kathy, and family,
My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you today as you honor and pay tribute to Leroy’s life. Broadus was very fortunate to have such a dedicated, caring professional and friend. Because of Leroy and his dedication to his profession, a lot of lives were saved, two of them, my dad and brother. Many people wouldn’t have lived as long as they did, thanks to this man’s remarkable skills. Leroy was a true “ANGEL OF MERCY.” May God Bless all of you on this special day. Sending Love and Hugs!
Cindy and Bill Rock says
Such a wonderful man who touched so many lives with grace, humor, wit and an open, caring heart. LeRoy was a blessing to all who met him and we are sending our deepest condolences to his wife, Kathy, and family. The community of Broadus has lost an old friend. Rest in peace, LeRoy.
Shan Carter says
My heart is broken…He was the one that listened to a mom when she talked about her kids and what worked and what didn’t…and you knew he wasn’t just “Yes Mam” you. He was always willing to get up in the middle of the night and go to the clinic. Broadus lost a great man and PA when he left. Say Hello to my dad when you get up to heaven because you’ll would be great friends. Love, Hugs and Kisses to you Kathy and my three secret words…
TAKE YOUR TIME!!
Shannon Holmen says
Dear Kathy and family,
So sorry about Leroy…he fought a good fight. H e was such a caring, loving man and Montana was luck to have had him. He will be so missed by so many. Prayers.
William Wallick says
I am sorry to hear of Leroys passing. Over the years we shared many patients. He was a very intuitive practioner and always placed the patints wellbeing first above all else. Go with God Leroy.
Lisa Gaskill says
Kathy. I am so sorry to have missed Leroy’s service. He meant so much to everyone who knew him. He was a true angel among us. I pray that you and your family will continue to find peace in the assurance that Leroy has been received into heaven with joyous singing.
Bernice Rolfson says
Kathy an d family I am so sorry to hear of your loss and I know what a void this has left in your hearts. Leroy was on of the most caring people I have ever known. Dick had so much respect for him too as they cared for many injured persons together. Your faith will see you though this difficult time. May God Bless each of you. Bernice
VERONICA MEANS says
My thoughts and prayers go out to Leroy’s family. I never got to meet Leroy in person but my profession gave me ample to to speak with Leroy. I loved his sense of humor, kindness and appreciation for his patients. I know that he is in heaven and that St. Peter had those doors open and waiting for him. Rest in peace my friend and until we meet again.
J Johnson says
Dear Family and Friends of LeRoy Biesheuvel – I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. May God give you peace and comfort through His sure promises to end pain, mourning and death(Revelation 21:4.) Almighty God also promises to fulfill our desires, not just our needs (Psalms 145:16). Cherish all the happy memories of Mr. Biesheuvel and be further comforted by the Bible (John 17:3).
Luci Heller says
Condolances
Susie Lewis says
Kathy, keep that beautiful smile on your face and keep w wearing that beautiful jewerley and bright colored cloths in memory of Leroy. This is what he would expect you to to as ya’ll had such a colorful life. Love you.