OSAGE CITY — William L. “Leslie” Greenfield, Overbrook, died Friday, Dec. 30, 2022, at Brookside Manor, Overbrook. He was 103.
He was born Nov. 5, 1919, at Overbrook, the son of Augustus W. and Bertha E. (Garber) Greenfield.
Leslie married Laura A. Matthews Aug. 22, 1940, in Topeka. They shared 72 years of marriage before her death on May 13, 2013.
He lived on the farm purchased in 1873 by his grandfather, William Greenfield.
Leslie farmed, building his first tractor from salvaged truck parts. Later, he taught himself to repair radios and televisions, building his first black and white television from a mail order kit in the early 1950s, when television was a new technology. He operated his sales and repair service as “Leslie Greenfield TV Sales & Service” for 30 years, serving Overbrook and the surrounding towns. Many families had their first television delivered and set up by Leslie.
He also loved country music and enjoyed playing guitar with his group “The Santa Fe Trail Pickers,” performing at many Osage County fairs and area senior facilities. He continued to play music with friends past his 100th birthday.
Leslie was a member of the Overbrook United Methodist Church, serving as a trustee for many years.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, one sister, two brothers and a great-granddaughter.
Leslie is survived by his daughter, Marjorie A. Robb, Topeka; son, Robert W. Greenfield (Kathryn), Ottawa; three grandchildren, Brant Greenfield (Dodie), Overbrook, Kevin Greenfield (Amy), Scranton, and Donna Musick, Wakarusa; seven great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.
Memorial services will be 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at Overbrook United Methodist Church. Family will meet with friends immediately following the service. A private family inurnment will be held later at Overbrook Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Overbrook United Methodist Church and sent in care of Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, KS 66067.
Condolences and memories may be left at DengelMortuary.com.
