Wayne Edward Leibel of rural Elk Point, South Dakota died February 12, 2008 at the VA Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska.

Wayne, the third eldest child of John J. and Selma (Schroer) Leibel was born September 7, 1938 at Burke, South Dakota. He was rasied on the family farm north of Burke, and attended the Streeter School throughout his elementary years. He then attended Burke High School, where he was given the nickname of Smiley, graduating with the class of 1956.

Wayne farmed for several years until he was activated with the 730th Medical Unit of the National Guard out of Winner, South Dakota. Upon returning, he took up carpentry and building construction work with Lloyd Bartling Construction of Burke. He later moved to Vermillion, South Dakota and was employed in maintenance with the University of South Dakota. He worked in Hill City for a logging company for several years before moving back to Vermillion to pursue his career in building construction until his retirement. He retired to a home that he had constructed in Richland, South Dakota.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Pauline Elliot; his brother Robert Leibel and two nieces.

Wayne is survived by his sister, Jean Bailey and husband Tom of Bonesteel, SD; his brother, Kenneth Butch Leibel and wife Debra of Burke, SD and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral serices will be held on Saturday, February 16, 2008 at 11:00 AM at Clausen Funeral Home. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery in Burke. Visitation will be Friday from 5 to 7 PM, with a 7 PM prayer service, at the funeral home.