Mr. Leonard L. Gilpin, 80, of Dallas City, Illinois passed away Wednesday, February 25, 2009 at 6:20 PM at his home.

He was born February 24, 1929 in Keokuk, Iowa, the son of Oscar William and Gertrude Decker Gilpin. On August 28, 1950 he married Dorothy Maynard near Niota, Illinois.

Early in life Mr. Gilpin worked for the Nauvoo Rock Quarry. Later, he worked for the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant and most recently worked as a commercial fisherman.
He enjoyed crossword puzzles, drawing, fish fries and his grandchildren. He also enjoyed music and played the harmonica, guitar and spoons.

He is survived by his wife, 3 sons, Russell Gilpin of Niota and Fred and Lenny Gilpin, both of Leisureland, 1 daughter, Sherry Brown of Dallas City, 14 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, 1 brother Raymond Gilpin of Hamilton and 2 sisters, Pauline Coleman of Galesburg and Leona Seidler of Dallas City.

He was preceded in death by 1 daughter, Elizabeth McSparen and 5 brothers and 1 sister.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM Monday, March 2, 2009 at Myers Cemetery, rural Niota, IL with Pastor Louis Day officiating. There will be no visitation. A memorial fund has been established. Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Dallas City is assisting with arrangements.