Leif D. Painter, 72, of New Castle, formerly West Middlesex, passed away Tuesday afternoon, July 2, 2024, in Edison Manor Nursing Home and Rehabilitation, New Castle.

Mr. Painter was born June 7, 1952 in Carlisle, PA, a son of the late Stanley and Helen (Ruth) Painter.

After transfering from Hickory High School in Hermitage during his senior year, he graduated from Reynolds High School in 1971. While attending Hickory High, he was a competitive shooter and member of the rifle club, as well as a founding member of the Chess Club.

Leif attended Calvary Temple, New Castle.

In his younger years, Leif was a member of the Boy Scouts of America, earning his Eagle Scout. In his later years, Leif was a lay minister spreading the word of God and his knowledge of the Bible. Leif touched countless lives over many years while living in New Castle. He loved to cycle and backpack, spend time at local coffee houses, and looked forward to a good conversation or debate. Leif had a passion for music and talent for playing the drums and spoons. He loved listening to some of his favorite artists, especially, Otis Redding and The Beatles, and his favorite hymn was "God be with You til we Meet Again."

Leif is survived by three younger sisters; two younger brothers; several nieces and nephews; and other extended family members.

In addition to his parents, Leif was preceded in death by a sister, Teresa Besco and her daughter, Melinda Besco.

In keeping with his wishes, all services will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be directed to the American Cancer Society, at www.Cancer.org

Interment: Savannah Cemetery, Shenango Twp.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 111 W. Falls St., New Castle. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.McGonigleFuneralHomeandCrematory.com .

In loving memory of our brother, Leif

As you ever near the throne room be no hint of fear of death.
Soon to exhale carbon one last time then inhale Heaven's breath.
That no deception or delusion would cloud the way you think.
Approach again fountain of Life. With pure volition take a drink.

I smile to know of the fullness of beauty in Heaven that you will soon see.
That Christ has guided your thoughts and nurtured your heart
and I pray for your total relief.
That grief and regret would have no foothold as you cross the threshold to Heaven.
As the Timekeeper tells in a world plunging towards Hell
the hour hands' well past eleven.

But we know redemption and we know forgiveness.
We know death can be bittersweet.
And we know the Christ and so hope is not lost. And so
we hope in the Christ in our grief.
His promise eternal. His healing - a blessing -
that promises total relief.
Now press on for Christ as He calls you home
and says, "Well done, my servant, Leif."

Painter, A. Well Past Eleven, excerpt from Utopia Burning, Salem (Xulon) Publications. Release date: summer 2024.