FRANCIS LECLAIRE
Francis died Saturday, April 8, 2023 at his daughter’s home
wind in his hair and the freedom of the ride.
He was always ready for the next adventure, whether it was a long cross-country trip or a quick ride to his favorite local hangout.
Terry was a true enthusiast, and his passion for biking was infectious. He inspired many others to take up the hobby, join him on the open road, and never hesitated in showing them the ropes.
As a father, Terry was the epitome of love and devotion. He adored his children and always put their needs first. He was their biggest cheerleader and was always there to provide a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on. Terry instilled in his children the values of hard work, perseverance and kindness, and they will carry those lessons with them always.
As a lifetime love, Terry was a true partner and soulmate. He and Mona shared a love that was deep and abiding. They were each other's rock through thick and thin, in Scranton, IA. Services were held Saturday, April 15, 2023 at the Bonesteel Community Center in Bonesteel. Peters Funeral Home in Wagner was in charge of arrangements.
Francis was born at home in Milk’s Camp to Phillip Garfield LeClaire and Hannah Pearl Stone Arrow. He attended grade school in St. Charles and then went to Flandreau Indian School for a year. He came back home and got his GED. He sold Grit papers and saved up to order a guitar by
and their bond was unbreakable.
Terry and Mona made a beautiful life together, filled with love, laughter and adventure.
As a friend, Terry was a true gem. He had a heart of gold and was always there to lend a helping hand.
He was the kind of person who would drop everything to come to a friend's aid. Terry had a way of making everyone feel welcome and valued, and his infectious smile and booming laugh will be sorely missed.
In addition to his love of biking, Terry had a passion for camping.
He cherished the great outdoors and found peace in the simplicity of living off the land. He would spend hours setting up camp, building fires and relaxing in the wilderness. It was during these trips that he felt most alive and connected to the world around him.
In his mancave, Terry would tinker and work on various projects. He loved nothing more than getting lost in his work, fixing Nebraska and won.
He left for California and attended barber school. When he returned to Milk’s Camp from California he married Geraldine Leading Fighter on March 13, 1959.
They had eight children: Karen, June, Dana, Scott, Chuck, Susan, Candace and Holly. They had lived in Sioux Falls, Sioux City, Mitchell and then settled in Bonesteel to raise their family.
things and building new creations.
His mancave was a sanctuary, a place where he could escape from the world and focus on his guns and knives in true biker passion Terry was also a devoted grandfather. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and would often be found snuggling with Archer, telling stories, or simply enjoying creating fun things for the kids to do outdoors. He had a special bond with his grandchildren and treasured every moment he spent with them.
Terry's love for life was infectious, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy will live on in the memories of those whose lives he touched. He will be remembered as a loving father, dedicated husband, loyal friend, passionate biker, avid camper, skilled tinkerer and doting grandfather.
Terry leaves behind his old lady, as he would say, Ramona L.
Drapeau; daughter Terri Lynn member.
He provided care for grandchildren as needed. As children he took us all to area revivals, bible studies and church. Francis enjoyed playing guitar, singing,
visiting, traveling, playing bingo and going to the casino. He loved listening to his music and joking with people.
Francis spent his last years in Sioux Falls before he returned to Wagner. He was in Miller Good Samaritan Home when he became ill. He passed away peacefully at
his parents Phillip and Hannah; his siblings: Katherine Rainwater, Ruby Thornton, Phillip LeClaire Jr, Nathan LeClaire, Rachel Lone Hill and Genevieve LaMotte; sons: Dana and Scott LeClaire.
He is survived by children: Karen LeClaire, June Ballard, Chuck LeClaire, Susan Center, Candace LeClaire and Holly LeClaire. He leaves behind 29 grandchildren, 44 great grandchildren and a multitude of relatives and friends.
Francis will be greatly missed by many.