Leon Joseph Moeder, 74, died October 19, 2022, at Wesley Medical Center, Wichita. He was born February 29, 1948, the second child of Engelbert “Bert” and Rita (Sulzman) Moeder.
Leon graduated from Plainville High School and received his bachelor’s degree from Fort Hays State University, in 1972. While a student at Fort Hays State University, he was a member of the rodeo club, where Leon became a bull rider. In May 1974, he started his career as an auctioneer and real estate broker. Leon became CEO and owner of Davenport Auction & Realty, Inc., in 1986. In his almost 50-year auctioneer career, Leon proudly helped with over 3,000 auctions ranging from commercial and personal property to diamonds. Most recently, he was a substitute teacher for USD 308. With his humor and quick wit, Leon quickly gained the respect of his students and loved helping to make a difference in their lives.
Leon enjoyed grilling for his family, with steak as his specialty. Listening to sports commentaries and watching his beloved Kansas City Chiefs, in particular Patrick Mahomes, were some of his favorite pastimes. Leon was a member of St. Teresa Catholic Church, Hutchinson.
Leon held a special bond with his only grandchild, Brailey. From the moment she was born, Leon was a proud grandpa and one of her biggest cheerleaders. When Brailey had school activities, whether it was a sporting or musical event, he strived to be in attendance. Leon was a one-of-a-kind dad, grandpa, brother, uncle, friend, cowboy, auctioneer, and mentor. There will never be another Leon Moeder!
Leon is survived by: sons, Daron Moeder and Toby Moeder, both of Hutchinson; granddaughter, Brailey Moeder of Hutchinson; siblings, Denis Moeder (Leta) of Ocala, FL, Jim Moeder (Sondra) of Topeka, Andy Moeder (Jeanne) of Canyon, TX, Greg Moeder of Orlando, FL, Joe Moeder of Axtell, NE, Eric Moeder (Karen) of Hays, Anita Kennedy of Denver, CO, Mary Lacy (Ron) of Kearney, NE, Gloria Trible (Paul) of Topeka, Janet Weis (Perry) of Lyons, Ann Yardy of Arvada, CO, and Teresa Bjornstad (Ken) of North Platte, NE; sister-in-law, Karen Moeder of Oakley; and numerous nephews, nieces, clients, students, and friends.
He was preceded in death by: his parents; a brother, John Moeder; brother-in-law, Ken Kennedy; and Daron and Toby’s mother, Annie Davenport Moeder.
Rosary will be 6:00 p.m. Friday, October 28, 2022, at Elliott Mortuary. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 29, 2022, at St. Teresa Catholic Church, 211 E. 5th Avenue, Hutchinson, with Father Matt Glazier officiating. Inurnment will follow in Lone Star Cemetery, Pretty Prairie. Cremation has taken place. Friends may sign his book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 9:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, with the family greeting friends following the Rosary at Elliott Mortuary.
Click here to view Leon's Rosary
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Leon Moeder Memorial Fund, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.