Leon Thomas Welker, 83, of Stockton, Kansas, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026, at the Rooks County Health Center in Plainville, Kansas.

Leon was born on August 19, 1942, on the Hardman Ranch south of Woodston, Kansas to Thomas Lesley Welker and Martha Elizabeth (Delaney) Welker. He graduated from Woodston High School in 1960.

Following high school, Leon worked briefly for Rural Telephone and later as a typesetter for the Osborne newspaper before leaving for Chicago, where he worked at O’Hare International Airport. He later returned to Woodston, where he worked on the family farm until joining Jones Oil Company in 1969. Leon built a long and respected career with the company, retiring in 2013 after more than 40 years of service.

On October 12, 1963, Leon married the love of his life Margaret Lea Strutt in Woodston, Kansas. Together they built their life in rural Woodston and raised their twin sons, Thomas Lee and Timothy Leon.

Some of Leon’s happiest days were spent hunting and fishing along the Solomon River Valley with his dad and later alongside his two boys. Leon loved reminiscing with family and friends and was known for his dry humor, quick wit, and good-natured teasing — especially when it came to his many nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his loving wife of more than 62 years, Margaret Welker; sons Thomas Lee Welker and Timothy Leon Welker; daughter-in-law Kristy Welker; grandchildren Mason and Nora Welker; sisters Kathy (Dale) Couch and Arlyne Maddy; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Lesley and Martha Elizabeth Welker; and brother-in-law, Verlyn Maddy.

The date and time will be announced soon for a Celebration of Life to be held at Stockton Church of Restoration with a luncheon to follow. 

Inurnment will be held at a later date.

Memorials are suggested to Stockton Church of Restoration and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS 67669.