Obituaries

Kenneth “Clem” Allen Leaver, 75, of Dover, Florida, formerly of Bismarck, Illinois, passed away at 9:30 a.m. on October 15, 2025 at Lakeland Regional Hospital, Florida. Born on February 23, 1950, Clem was the son of Merle and Florence Leaver. He was a graduate of Bismarck-Henning High School.   After graduating, he ran the family farm in Henning, Illinois until 1989.   In 1989, he transitioned from farming to establish his own trucking company, reflecting his entrepreneurial spirit. He was preceded in death by his parents, Merle and Florence Leaver; one brother, James Leaver; and one granddaughter. He is survived by his two sons, Brad (Paula) Leaver of Danville, Illinois, and Bryan (Laura) Leaver of San Diego, California; the mother of his children, Sharon Hawkins; one brother, John Leaver of Rossville, Illinois; his former wife, Debbie Leaver, as well as four grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren.

Clem treasured time with family and friends, traveling frequently from Florida to attend his grandchildren’s sporting and local events.  His humor, generosity, and enjoyment of time with family and friends will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Clem also had a love for aviation and enjoyed being a private pilot, often flying a plane he co-owned with his brothers. His adventurous nature and curiosity for the skies brought him great joy throughout his life.

A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the Danville American Legion, Post 210 from 3-7 p.m.