Alvin E. Leff, 85, found joy in farm life, auctions, conversation and the company of his animals
RICEVILLE — Alvin Ellsworth Leff, 85, formerly of Lime Springs, died Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Riceville Family Care and Rehab, where he had been living after being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer more than a year ago.
A funeral service was held Friday, October 2, at Hindt-Hudek Funeral Home in Riceville with Pastor Craig Moss officiating. Burial followed at Saratoga Cemetery. Visitation was held for one hour before the service.
Alvin was born January 20, 1941, in Menlo, Iowa, the son of Lawrence and Evelyn (Conrad) Leff.
He attended school through the eighth grade in Searsboro before going to work alongside his father on the family farm. Alvin helped with field work and cared for the family’s dairy cattle until his father retired.
Farming remained a major part of Alvin’s life. After his father’s retirement, he continued farming with his youngest brothers.
Away from the fields, Alvin was someone who enjoyed people and conversation. He liked visiting with family, friends and nearly anyone he happened to meet during his trips around the area.
Auctions were another favorite pastime. Alvin enjoyed attending sales and would even bid on items for friends who were unable to be there themselves.
His nieces also knew him as a man who was rarely short on advice. His ideas could sometimes amuse them, but they always made time to hear what Uncle Alvin had to say.
Some of Alvin’s quietest and happiest moments could be found in the barn. He enjoyed sitting there in solitude, holding and talking to one of his cats or spending time with his dog.
Alvin is survived by his siblings, Phyllis Larson of Chester, Marion Fox of Fredericksburg, Sandy Dailey of Oelwein, Dallas (Evie) Leff of Riceville and Carol (Mike) Reisner of Fredericksburg; sister-in-law Maxine Leff of Lime Springs; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Donald, Harvey, Norman and Arnold; and brothers-in-law Gene Larson, Virgil Thein, Dale Fox and Bill Dailey.
Family and friends may leave condolences and find additional information through Hindt Funeral Homes.
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