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Leigh Noel Shadel, 95

Leigh Noel Shadel, of Hayden, Idaho, passed away June 19, 2017, with family by his side.

Leigh was born Dec. 6, 1921, in Gridley, Kan., to William and Ethel (Leigh) Shadel. Leigh’s parents brought him to Sandpoint, Idaho, in 1924, with his brothers Francis and Vernon. They arrived by railroad car, with their farm equipment, and started the Shadel Farm.

Leigh attended Sandpoint schools and college, and later joined to serve our country with the U.S. Army Air Corps and served during World War II, and the U.S. Air Force Reserves. He remained a lifetime member of the VFW.

As a U.S. Postal Service employee, Leigh delivered the mail on the rural route in Samuels, Idaho. His rural route ranged over 80 miles a day with numerous mail patrons who loved him dearly. He was known as, “Sam the mailman,” because he worked for Uncle Sam. He retired in 1978 after 31 years. Leigh was presented with an award from the U.S. Postal Service for an exceptionally safe driving record and being accident free during his employment.

On Nov. 2, 1947, Leigh married Violet Emily Surby. They welcomed a daughter, Marcia (Zerbe), and later a second daughter, Linda (McLaughlin). The family resided in Colburn, Idaho. The girls often refer to their childhood as picture perfect. Violet passed away, after almost 30 years of marriage, on Jan. 21, 1977.

Patricia Miller Scwhin was in Sandpoint attending her family reunion when she and Leigh rekindled an old friendship from high school. Patricia at the time was residing in Pharr, Texas, where they were married and returned to live in Colburn. Their wedding was Nov. 25, 1977. With their vows came the addition of Patricia’s girls, Noralee (Flaget), Kathlyn (Evans), Nancy (Macvie) and Peggy (Foster). Leigh was married to Patricia for 32 years before her passing on Jan. 8, 2010.

Leigh is survived by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He enjoyed bowling, traveling, wood carving and spending time with his family. In Leigh’s 80s, he made a mission trip for the Coeur d’Alene Bible Church as a surveyor. This was a very important highlight in his life.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 24, 2017, in Coffelt’s Funeral Chapel in Sandpoint. Interment will follow in Pinecrest Memorial Park.

Family and friends are invited to sign the online guest book for Leigh at www.coffeltfuneral.com.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Coffelt Funeral Service.