Leo E. Dockendorf, 85, of Russell died on Tuesday, October 13, 2009 at the Ellsworth County Medical Center.  He was born on March 31, 1924 in Russell, Kansas the son of John and Cora (Goodman) Dockendorf.

Leo grew up in the Russell County area and attended Belmont school.  He met, fell in love and was united in marriage to Emma Maye Howard on May 17, 1946 in Caney, Kansas.  From this union they were blessed with three children, Coleen, Barbara and Curtis.  From the time he was a small boy, Leo was a farmer and enjoyed spending long hours tending his farm.  Leo enjoyed making crafts and wood working and would often give his creations away to family and friends for them to enjoy.  Leo and Maye were passionate and devoted square dancers.  They were member of the Russell Cross Trailers Square Dance Club, Hays Shooting Stars, Hoisington Swinging Stars, Ellis Singles Club and spent countless hours attending square dance events far and wide.  They enjoyed spending time as a couple, camping and fishing.  In the last couple of years he really enjoyed listening to Polka music on the local radio station.  Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family, friends and many grandchildren.

Surviving family include daughters Coleen Carrico and husband Tracy of Houston, Texas and Barbara Reyelts and husband Dean of Russell; sister Mary Ann Weigel of Gorham, 8 Grandchildren and 6 Great Grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Emma Maye on June 14, 1998, and son Curtis Dockendorf on July 29, 1996.

A celebration of Leo’s life will be held at 10 AM on Saturday, October 17, 2009 at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary Chapel in Russell.  Burial will follow at the Prairie Lawn Cemetery west of Gorham.  Visitation will be from 9 A.M. to 8 P.M. on Friday, October 16, 2009 at the mortuary with family present from 6 P.M. to 7 P.M. Friday evening.  Memorials may be given to the Prairie Lawn Cemetery Fund and sent in care of the mortuary.  Condolences may be sent via email by going to www.pvpmortuary.com.  Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell is in charge of the funeral arrangements.