Leroy Edward Jirikovec

LeRoy, the middle of three boys, was born in Manitowoc, Wisconsin on April 23, 1925 to Edward W. and Anna O’Leary Jirikovec. At the age of 17, he volunteered for the V-12 Program during World War II and was commissioned as a surface warfare officer and engineer in the Navy. Following the war, he graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1948.

On June 20, 1950, he married Lois Runde, and the following May, he was called back to active duty for the Korean War where he served another 2 ½ years as a Lieutenant. After his service, he began working in Chicago for the United Cities Gas Company (now Atmos Energy) and was later transferred to Gainesville, Georgia as Manager. In 1966, he moved to Nashville and was ultimately promoted to Senior Vice President of Operations until his retirement in 1990.

LeRoy put his heart into everything he did and never left a job unfinished. He was an avid golfer with several holes-in-one and a longtime member of Brentwood Country Club. A man of deep faith, he was an active member of St. Henry Catholic Church for more than 50 years. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Serra Club, and St. Henry Men's Club. After his retirement, he enjoyed working part time at Hart Hardware until the age of 92. LeRoy traveled the world with his beloved wife, Lois, and together they visited all seven continents and had many adventures. Always cheerful, optimistic, patient, grateful, and kind, he loved every minute of his life and had a profound sense of peace in his final days on earth. His greatest joy was his family, and they will miss him dearly.

LeRoy is survived by his loving wife of 73 years, Lois; children Mark (Johanna), Jane (Brian) Swenson; brother, Allen; 5 grandchildren, Anna (Jameson) Norton, Jonathan Jirikovec, Brian (Thea) Swenson, George (fiancée Julia Ross) Swenson, Anthony Swenson; and four great-grandchildren, Jameson Norton, Claire Norton, Caroline Norton, and Athena Swenson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Anna; and brother, John.

A Funeral Mass for Leroy was held Tuesday, December 19, 2023. Following the Funeral Mass will be a committal service at Middle Tennessee Veterans Cemetery, 7931 McCrory Ln, Nashville, TN.