Leland R. Boehme, 83 of Taylorville, passed away at 4:30am on Friday, October 16, 2020 at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield.  He was born on August 2, 1937 in Litchfield, the son of Marvin Jon and Harriet Louise (Bierbaum) Boehme.  Leland graduated from Litchfield High School where he played football and was named All Conference in the Midstate Conference.  He went on to play football at Upper Iowa University where he graduated with his bachelor’s degree.  On November 21, 1955 he married Carol Ann Slightom in Corinth, Mississippi and she preceded him in death on March 25, 2013.  He was a member of Davis Memorial Christian Church.  Leland taught biology in the Nokomis and Taylorville School Districts for many years.  He enjoyed coaching throughout his years of teaching.  Leland was an accomplished vocalist and performed in and directed many plays and musicals.  His proudest role was playing Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof at Millikin University.  He enjoyed playing the role of Santa for many years, bringing smiles to countless children.  He impacted and influenced the lives of all that he knew.  Leland had a personality bigger than life.  His will be forever remembered for his wit, humor, stories, and love of life.

He is survived by his children: daughter: Yvonne Rae Fletcher of Taylorville, 3 sons: Kevin Dean Boehme and wife Tracie, Brian Kurt Boehme and wife Tammy all of Taylorville, and Andrew Jon Boehme and wife Janine of Ringgold, Georgia; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; brother: Marvin Dean Boehme (Irma) of Iowa; and beloved dog: Fred P. Boehme.  He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and brother: Keith Boehme.

Leland will be cremated, and a memorial service will take place at noon on Tuesday, October 20, 2020 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville with Rev. Bill Kerns officiating.  Visitation will he held from 10:00am until the time of the service on Tuesday.  CDC health guidelines will be followed including social distancing and the use of masks.  Memorial donations may be made to Davis Memorial Christian Church.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Leland, or condolences to his family, may be shared online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.