Leeland C. Kiggins

Leeland Charles "Lee" Kiggins, 82, lifelong area resident, passed quietly at home on Saturday, November 16, 2024, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Gordon, WI on January 8, 1942, the son of Charles and Beatrice (Chase) Kiggins.

A man whose life began in a humble tar-paper shack in Gordon, Wisconsin, Lee built a legacy rich in family, friendship, and adventure. Growing up in Oulu, Wisconsin, Lee was a natural athlete who made his mark on the South Shore High School football team, graduating in 1961.

His competitive spirit extended beyond the field to the card table, where he was known for his skilled play and the stories and laughter shared during countless games with family and friends.

A devoted family man, Lee's work ethic was legendary. From his early days as a lumberjack to his 36-year career at Superior Hardboard Plant/Georgia Pacific, he worked tirelessly to provide for his loved ones.

His retirement years brought new adventures, including cherished seasons working alongside his beloved wife Dona at Sleepy Bear campgrounds in Michigan – times he often called "some of the best years of his life."

The outdoors was Lee's sanctuary. An avid hunter and passionate bass fisherman, he found joy in sharing his love of nature with his children. His old Ford truck carried countless memories of fishing trips and impromptu singing sessions with his grandchildren, where his love for classic country music filled the air.

A die-hard Green Bay Packers fan, Lee treasured watching games with his sons. His quick wit, ready joke, and generous heart touched all who knew him, leaving an indelible mark on his community and a legacy of love that will endure through generations.

Lee is survived by his wife of 63 years, Dona Kiggins; his children Charles (Becky), Steven (June), Donald Ray, and Cherri (Paul) Keene; his siblings Larry (Michelle) Kiggins and Gloria Hissa; grandchildren Angie Atchison, Amanda Atchison, Rebecca Eschenweck, Chrissy Davidson, Heather Bushnell, Drew Gertken, Eli Keene, Kassie Brower, Kaylee Kiggins, Melissa Caribou, Elizabeth Caribou, Kortney Kiggins, Gabrielle Kiggins Houle, Jesse Kiggins, Autumn Kiggins, and Summer Kiggins; and many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles, and Beatrice Kiggins; daughter Carolyn Kiggins; granddaughter Nicole Kiggins Morris; sisters Maxine Speed, Darlene Tuura, and Geraldine Hakkila; and brother Dean Kiggins. Lee's absence leaves a void in our world, but his spirit lives on in the hearts of all whose lives he touched. His legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to family will forever be remembered.

Celebration of Life to be held on November 30, 2024 at 1:00 in Iron River, Wisconsin at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 68160 S George St, Iron River, WI 54847.

The Lenroot-Maetzold Funeral Home, 1209 E. 5th Street in Superior, is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave a condolence or sign the guestbook, please visit www.lenroot-maetzold.com.