Obituary: Elmer “LeRoy” Lahde

Elmer “LeRoy” Lahde, 88, of Ocoee, passed away Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025.

He is survived by daughter, Sheila Wright, and son-in-law, Robert (Susie) Kari, of Ocoee; grandchildren, Brandon (Lauren) Kari, of Ocoee, Brianna (Jacob) Loucks, of Howey-in-the-Hills, Miranda (Jeffrey) Justice, of Winter Garden, and Meghan Mathis, of Ocoee; as well as 11 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his adored wife, Barbara Lahde; and beloved daughters, Vickie Kari and Mandy Mathis.

LeRoy was born to Victor “Vic” and Lillian “Lil” (Holkko) Lahde, on June 27, 1937, in Virginia, Minnesota, and moved to Florida in 1972, when he began working as an electrician for NASA and, later, Walt Disney World. In 1984, the Lahdes opened the former Brass Rail Saloon in Winter Garden, which they owned until 1999. LeRoy was best known for his sense of humor, immaculate car detailing, grand gestures of affection (such as 2-foot greeting cards), and his love for his family, his Harley, AM radio and his dogs.

A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, at Quest Church, 1450 Citrus Oaks Ave., Gotha.

Arrangements are in the caring guidance of Winter Oak Funeral Home & Cremations, Winter Garden.