- Date Of Birth: May 14, 1953
- Date Of Death: October 30, 2020
- State: Illinois
October 18, 2020, Leanne Joy (Ridder) Mast left this earth for her heavenly home. John Eliza Mast joined his beloved wife in the arms of their Savior just 12 days later on October 30, 2020. The couple leave behind five children: Kristinel (Kevin) Livingston, Nicholas (Jillian) Mast, Corinne Mast, Natalea (Bradley) Reed, and Casey (Sara) Mast, as well as their four precious grandchildren: Emerson Jane and Brynn Eliza Anne Mast (daughters of Casey and Sara), Tara Adalina Mast (daughter of Nick and Jill), and Gibson John Reed (son of Natalea and Brad). Leanne is survived by her sister, Janice (late Leonard) Brink, sister-in-law Eydie (late Joe) Ridder, step-siblings Robert (Minnie) and Luanne (late Elmer) Homans, and countless nieces, nephews, and “adopted” children. John is survived by his siblings Dirk (Ann) Mast, Wilna (Tom) Byrne, sister-in-law Gwyneth (late Arie) Mast, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
From the moment they met, John and Lea’s love story was one for the books, centered on Christ and their mutual desire to honor Him in the life they would build together. Their home was one of laughter, love, and a legacy of faith passed down to their children, grandchildren, and the countless others they “adopted” into their lives.
John found joy in the beauty of creation, from his job as a landscape designer to his love of taking “the scenic route” on every family road trip. He was known for his corny jokes, contagious smile and laughter, and incredibly generous heart. John took pride in his children, cheering them on in their dreams and passions, and found his greatest joy in his role as an Opa, singing special Dutch songs to his grandbabies and finding every spare moment he could to be with them.
Leanne dedicated her life to serving others, both in her careers as a nurse and church administrative assistant, and her prized role as Mom and Nana. She was happiest when surrounded by her husband, children, and grandchildren, and worked tirelessly to plan family vacations and make every occasion one to remember. Leanne was often found with knitting needles in hand, creating beautiful blankets and dish rags; soaking in the sunsets on family vacation, and cooking up delicious meals, over which many a memory was made.
The pain of their absence will never fade, but most importantly, nor will John and Leanne’s dedication to living their lives fully for Christ. They leave behind them a legacy of faith that stretches far wider than they knew during their time on this earth.
