Leroy William Steinmann

Dr. Leroy William Steinmann passed away peacefully on Jan. 4, 2015. Leroy was born in Yoakum, Texas, on July 13, 1921, to parents Louis and Marie Steinmann. The younger of two sons, Leroy enjoyed growing up in the small German town of Schulenburg, along the railway between San Antonio and Houston. Leroy’s father was a jack of all trades, but established a chicken hatchery business that supplied the region with prize-winning chickens. Leroy helped care for and diagnose sicknesses that arose in the hen house.

Leroy graduated from Texas Christian University before being drafted into the Army during World War II. An opportunity arose to interview for medical school, and Leroy’s experience and skill with chickens gave him an edge. He attended the University of Michigan. After strong encouragement from a close classmate from Oregon, he met Ardis Ellingson. Upon his graduation, they married and moved to Portland, where Leroy served his internship and residency at Good Samaritan Hospital.

From there, the growing family moved to Oklahoma, where he worked in the public health service to complete his Army commitment. In 1953, they moved to Astoria, where he practiced general medicine at the Astoria Clinic for over 30 years. His genuine interest and ease with people contributed to his success as a physician. Roy loved his medical practice and being a “small town doctor.” House calls were something he enjoyed. Long-term friendships, both professionally and socially, developed through the years.

He was active in the First Presbyterian Church as an elder, and in retirement enjoyed working with the “Medicare Boys” and Habitat for Humanity. He also served on the Astoria School Board and the Oregon Medical Association board.

An avid photographer, he spent his few leisure hours photographing nature, family and friends. Roy loved to plan trips and travel as a way of spending special time with his family. In retirement, Roy and Ardis continued to travel and explore together. They made the most of life in their marriage of 59 years.

Leroy was predeceased by his wife, Ardis and brother, Floyd. He will be missed by his five children, Tena Seeborg (Steve), Lesa Hill (Jeff Wedel), Daryle Ryder (Jordan), Sharon Ross (Graham), and Robert Steinmann (Lisa), and by nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Jan. 17, 2015, at 2 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, located at 1003 Grand Ave., Astoria, Ore. Reception to follow at Peace Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall at 565 12th St., Astoria.

In lieu of flowers, a scholarship is being established in his name. Contributions may be sent to Astoria High School Scholarships Inc., P.O. Box 598, Astoria, OR 97103 or the First Presbyterian Church Building Fund, at the address above.