Leo Bork

Leo M. Bork 76, of Independence, died on April 21, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family, under the care of St. Croix Hospice.

Leo was born in Arcadia on July 10, 1949, to Robert and Antoinette (Pronschinske) Bork. He was raised on the family’s dairy farm, which cultivated a strong work ethic and values that were deeply rooted in faith and family. After graduating from Cotter High School, Leo attended Winona Vocational College to further his education in farm management and civil engineering. It was during this time that Leo met his future bride and the love of his life, Deb Molumby. The couple was united in marriage on August 7, 1971, at Holy Name Catholic Church in Minneapolis. To this union, the couple was blessed with five children: Michael, Shireen, Erich, Molly and Adam. The love and devotion of his family fueled his desire to work hard to provide for them. Leo was a farmer and welder prior to his 46-year trucking career with Pehler Transportation, where he started out hauling feeder pigs and ultimately drove semi over the road. Leo was also a life insurance agent and helped with maintenance at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church in Whitehall, where he was a member. After retirement, he hauled corn and soybeans for JP Enterprises. During this time, he developed a closer relationship with his nephew Jason and his family. In his spare time, Leo enjoyed woodworking and crafts with his children and grandchildren. He loved hunting, gardening, Spring flowers, cooking (especially with beans) finding new recipes, and he shared a special bond with his dog, Cody. The memories created with his family, his smile and generous nature will forever be cherished by his wife, children, grandchildren, family and friends.

Leo is survived by his wife, Deb; children: Michael (Carrie) Bork, Shireen (Ted) Renaghan, Erich (Breanne) Parr Bork, Molly (Chris) Fawcett, and Adam (Aimee) Bork; grandchildren: Austin and Garrett Bork, Evan Renaghan, Henry and Adeline Parr Bork, and Waylon Fawcett; brothers: Bob (Patrice), Damian, and Fred (Lori), and Tom (Tami) Bork; sisters: Bernita (Fred) Narvaes, Judy (Junior) Pieper, Joanie (Tom) Pieper, Rosie (Ken) Dowiasch, Lois (Steve) Zuelke, and Susie (Scott) Pearson; 11 brother and sisters-in-law; numerous nieces and nephews; and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister: Sharon Sheeler; and brothers-in-law: Michael Molumby and Jim Bork.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church in Whitehall with Father George Thayilkuzhithottu and Father John A. Schultz concelebrating. Family and friends are welcome for visitation from 4 to 7 p.m. on Monday, April 27, 2026, at St. John’s, where there will be a public prayer service beginning at 7 p.m. followed by the Rosary. Visitation will also be held one hour prior to the Mass at church on Tuesday. Burial will be in Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Cemetery, Independence.